PhD in hydrogel acoustic metamaterials — EPFL

Full description

For the 1 PhD 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 be interested in emerging, interdisciplinary fields and be motivated to address new challenges, including the development of hydrogel acoustic metamaterials .

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

• MSc in materials science, microengineering, or bioengineering;
• Experience with polymer characterisation and ultrasonics is required;
• More than 1 peer-reviewed publication ;
• Prior experience in cleanroom manufacturing and 3D printing 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 PhD Student, you will be expected to

• Have full responsibility for your own dissertation;
• 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
• 4 years to complete your PhD with a 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.
• Term of employment: 1-year fixed-term contract (CDD), renewable for 4 years.

Information

The selection process involves multiple stages, and short-listed candidates will be requested to apply to a specific EPFL Doctoral Program to qualify for a PhD at EPFL. Please check this page for additional information on admission. Potential doctoral programs for this position: EDMX, EDMI, or EDBB.

Please note that this is a separate application process necessary to be eligible to complete your PhD at EPFL .

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 2 references willing to write recommendation letters and their contact information
• Application deadline: 25 September 2026

Contract Start Date: Between 2026 fall and 2027 spring

Activity Rate : 100%

Contract Type: PhD Student

Duration: 1 year, renewable for 4 years

Reference: 2350

For more information, please contact: [email protected]