Mission

We are offering two challenging positions as a full-time (100%) PhD Student at ENAC at EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland. Our Laboratory EESD is focused on investigating the seismic behavior of reinforced concrete and unreinforced masonry buildings. Our approaches include numerical and mechanical modeling, large-scale testing as well as data-driven methods. The PhD candidates will contribute to advancing the understanding of the seismic behavior of historic brick masonry building aggregates through a combination of large-scale experimental testing, field investigations, and numerical simulations. The research will focus on the behavior and interaction of buildings within masonry aggregates, supporting the development of innovative assessment approaches and resilient retrofit solutions for historic urban environments exposed to earthquake risk.

You will be working on the ZAGGREGATE project, a collaborative research initiative between EPFL, University of Zagreb, and other academic and professional partners. The project aims to improve the understanding, assessment and rehabilitation of historic masonry building aggregates in seismic regions. The successful candidates will join a team of researchers working at the interface of structural engineering, earthquake engineering, and heritage conservation, and will have opportunities for collaboration and research visits in Croatia.

Main duties and responsibilities

As a PhD student you will be expected to:

• Conduct original doctoral research using experimental, numerical, and analytical methods to investigate the seismic response of masonry buildings as stand-alone buildings and within aggregates
• Contribute to the development of innovative assessment methodologies and resilient retrofit strategies for historic urban environments exposed to earthquake hazard
• Collaborating with project partners at EPFL, the University of Zagreb, and other international institutions
• Disseminating research findings through scientific publications and conference presentations
• Have full responsibility for your own dissertation
• Participating in education and co-supervise student projects

Profile

• A MSc degree (or equivalent) in Civil Engineering with a focus on Structural Engineering
• Experience or strong interest in experimental and/or numerical methods in structural engineering
• Interest in traditional construction techniques and interdisciplinary collaboration (engineering, heritage, architecture)
• Self-motivated, independent, and collaborative mindset with a high level of rigor for academic research work
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken) and willingness to work as part of a team
• Familiarity with Python, MATLAB or similar for data analysis
• Familiarity with numerical modeling tools (e.g. OpenSees, Abaqus, DIANA) is an asset

We offer

• A stimulating and international working environment
• Competitive salary and excellent working conditions, 1-year fixed-term contract (CDD), renewable for 3 years (4 years in total) to complete your PhD; more information can be found on our website
• You will be part of the EDCE doctoral program
• Opportunity to perform state-of-the-art research in one of the most dynamic scientific institutions in Europe
• Opportunity to interact with internationally renowned experts, and with a strong team of postdoctoral researchers and PhD students
• Opportunity to conduct meaningful research bridging engineering, cultural heritage, and development

Informations

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, i.e. Doctoral School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (EDCE).
Please check this page for additional information on admission.

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 will be considered. You are asked to supply:

• A cover letter outlining your motivation for the position (pdf, up to 2 pages)
• A single PDF containing: Curriculum Vitae, Bachelor's and Master's grades transcripts, Contact information for 2-3 referees

Application deadline: 30/09/2026

Contract Start Date: upon mutual agreement, ideally September 2026

Activity Rate : 100 %

Contract Type: CDD

Duration: 4 years

Reference: 2305

For more information, please contact: [email protected] or [email protected]. No applications sent directly to these addresses shall be considered.