Materials science and technology are our passion. With cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain. In our research group, we design mechanically robust, multi-responsive polyurethane elastomer with backbone-integrated molecular switches. Our aim is to move beyond conventional stimuli-responsive materials, which merely switch between predetermined states, toward life-like materials that genuinely learn: forming memories, consolidating them over time, selectively forgetting, and adapting their behavior through experience, all while retaining commercial-grade mechanical properties.
Tasks
- Synthesize libraries of single-, dual-, and triple-switch polyurethanes (Stenhouse salt, DASA, and Spiropyran) via copolymerization and post-polymerization functionalization, and validate backbone integration by NMR, GPC, DSC, DMA, tensile testing, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and pump probe characterization.
- Design and characterize synergistic switching cascades (collaborative, competitive, and interdependent pathways) using time-resolved and spatially resolved spectroscopy, patterned illumination, and pH/thermal stimuli.
- Develop and validate logic maps for memory formation, consolidation, and selective forgetting, and translate these into training-recall-forgetting cycles on physical polymer films and bilayer actuators.
- Contribute to integrating learning materials into soft robotic bilayer actuators and, together with the wider team, demonstrate behavioral adaptation in autonomous soft robots.
- Collaborate with international partners.
Requirements
- Strong background in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
- Highly motivated and curious, enjoying work at the interface of synthetic chemistry, materials science, and soft robotics.
- Comfortable in a multidisciplinary, collaborative environment.
- Highly proficient in spoken and written English.
- Master's degree required.
- Participation in writing scientific publications and presenting data at national and international scientific conferences.
- Previous experience in one or more of the following areas is required: Polymer/polyurethane synthesis and characterization; Molecular switches (e.g., photochromic, halochromic, or thermochromic systems); Standard analytical methods (NMR, UV-Vis, FTIR, and related techniques); Thermomechanical characterization of polymers (DSC, DMA, tensile testing).
- Experience with soft actuators or soft robotic systems is a plus but not required.
Benefits
- This project is part of an SNSF Ambizione grant hosted in the group of Dr. Luciano Boesel at Empa.
- The work will primarily be carried out at Empa St.Gallen under direct supervision.
- The PhD student will be affiliated at ETH Zürich (Prof. René Rossi, D-HEST).
- Innovative, sustainable, meaningful activities.
- Creating added value for society.
- International, multicultural working environment.
- Freedom to create and develop.
- Culture of inclusion and respect.
- Excellent balance between different areas of life.
- Multiple award-winning and certified employer.
- Benefits for rail, mobile, childcare, catering, etc.
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Über uns
Das Team
The project is hosted in the group of Dr. Luciano Boesel at Empa, with direct supervision and collaboration with international partners. The PhD student will be affiliated with ETH Zürich (Prof. René Rossi, D-HEST).