Postdoctoral researcher in hydrogel acoustic metamaterials — EPFL

Full description

For the 1 postdoc position starting between 2026 fall and 2027 spring , we are seeking a candidate with experience in microfluidics, microfabrication, stimulus-responsive hydrogels , ultrasonics and acoustic metamaterials (acoustic crystals) . The candidate should have solid experience in the development of hydrogel acoustic metamaterials .

We also welcome and can host candidates to apply for MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026/2027 .

Group leader and Research mission : Prof. Yujia Zhang

At the Laboratory for Bio-Iontronics ( BION ) , our mission is to make bioiontronic systems for biointerfaces and hybrid intelligent systems. To that end, we are interested in developing droplet-based iontronic systems, termed dropletronics , with key functions of embodied energy, logic control, stimulus responsiveness, and therapeutic delivery, enabling interactive communication with biology.

Profile

• PhD in materials science, microengineering, or bioengineering;
• Experience with polymer characterisation and ultrasonics is required;
• More than 2 peer-reviewed publications ;
• Prior experience in cleanroom manufacturing and iontronics is a plus ;
• Strong experimental skills and a practical and hands-on mindset;
• High level of motivation for interdisciplinary academic research;
• Independent, self-driven, creative, solution-oriented, open-minded, team-player, and collaborative;
• Fluency in English (French is a plus);
• Enthusiasm in sports is a plus.

Main duties and responsibilities

As a postdoc, you will be expected to

• Have full responsibility for your own research;
• Research in close collaboration with other lab members and international collaborators;
• Experiment design and execution;
• Analyse and interpret experimental results;
• Write scientific articles for publication in peer-reviewed journals;
• Present at international conferences;
• Supervise student projects and basic administrative support.

We offer

• Term of employment: 1-year fixed-term contract (CDD), renewable
• Competitive remuneration;
• International collaboration and visiting opportunities;
• EPFL is an international and world-class engineering institution that hosts state-of-the-art experimental facilities and a rich and vibrant scientific and entrepreneurial community.

Information

Only applications submitted through the online platform are considered . Please apply by uploading a single PDF file that contains supporting information, including:

• Motivation Letter
• Detailed CV
• At least 3 references willing to write recommendation letters and their contact information
• Application deadline: 25 September 2026

Contract Earliest Start Date: late 2026, flexible

Activity Rate: 100%

Contract Type: CDD

Reference: 2356