Mission The Materials in Transition (MATR) Lab at the School of ENAC, EPFL, is looking for a self-driven and inquisitive PhD candidate to start between July and September 2026, or upon agreement, in the field of sustainable construction.
The PhD research will focus on the development of design approaches for building elements that can meet functional performance criteria across multiple lifecycles enabling reuse; adaptability; and reduced environmental impact.
This will involve the development of novel assessment methods for reuse under changing socio-economic conditions with a particular emphasis on reversible construction and practical methods for separation, reuse, and reconfiguration.
Description
Mission The Materials in Transition (MATR) Lab at the School of ENAC, EPFL, is looking for a self-driven and inquisitive PhD candidate to start between July and September 2026, or upon agreement, in the field of sustainable construction.
The PhD research will focus on the development of design approaches for building elements that can meet functional performance criteria across multiple lifecycles enabling reuse; adaptability; and reduced environmental impact.
This will involve the development of novel assessment methods for reuse under changing socio-economic conditions with a particular emphasis on reversible construction and practical methods for separation, reuse, and reconfiguration.
The PhD in Reversible Assemblies for Sustainable Construction role offered by EPFL is based in Fribourg, Canton of Friburgo, in the administration sector.
Working as a cross-border employee in the Canton of Friburgo requires a G Permit, renewed annually. The Canton applies withholding tax at variable rates on gross income; since 2024 the Italy-Switzerland New Tax Agreement introduces concurrent taxation.
Swiss social contributions include AVS (5.3%), unemployment insurance (1.1%) and LPP (occupational pension). Use our free tax simulator to estimate the net salary for PhD in Reversible Assemblies for Sustainable Construction in administration and compare the cost of living between Switzerland and Italy.
Frequently asked questions
What is the net salary for a cross-border worker in the Canton of Friburgo?
Net salary depends on gross income, marital status and number of children. In the Canton of Friburgo, withholding tax ranges from about 2% to 15%. In the administration sector, use our simulator for a tailored figure.
Do I need Swiss LAMal health insurance for the PhD in Reversible Assemblies for Sustainable Construction role in Friburgo?
New cross-border workers since 2024 must enrol in Swiss LAMal within 3 months of starting. Premiums vary by canton, model and deductible. Compare with our LAMal comparator.