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EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, is one of the most dynamic university campuses in Europe and ranks among the top 20 universities worldwide. The EPFL employs more than 6,500 people supporting the three main missions of the institutions: education, research and innovation. The EPFL campus offers an exceptional working environment at the heart of a community of more than 18,500 people, including over 14,000 students and 4,000 researchers from more than 120 different countries.

Post-doc on topology optimization

About us and our project

The Chair of Numerical Modelling and Simulation at EPFL is dedicated to the design and analysis of numerical algorithms for partial differential equations. Our research is oriented towards the development of novel and innovative numerical techniques aiming at improving the integration between numerical simulations and geometric modelling and processing.

Within the project «FLASh: Fast simulation tools for LAttice Structures», funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, we are opening a postdoctoral position for developing efficient algorithms for the topology optimization of architected materials using finite element technique

What you will do

As a postdoc in our group, you will lead research on the design and implementation of mathematically sound methods for the topology optimization of architected materials, leveraging fast simulation techniques such as unfitted finite element methods, domain decomposition, reduced order modeling, or isogeometric analysis. You will work in a dynamic and collaborative environment, contributing to both the theoretical development and the software implementation of these methods. More specifically:

  • Lead and contribute to research projects in the broad areas of numerical simulation and topology optimization, within FLASh and related initiatives
  • Develop, implement, and maintain in-house simulation and topology optimization software
  • Analyze, interpret, and publish results in leading international journals
  • Present your work at national and international conferences and build a strong network in the field
  • Mentor and co-supervise PhD and Master students
  • Contribute to teaching activities within the group
  • Assist in the preparation of grant proposals and project reports
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You are the ideal candidate if

  • You hold a PhD (or are nearing completion of one) in mathematics, computational mechanics, engineering, or a related field
  • You have a strong background in topology optimization, ideally with experience in density-based methods (SIMP), level set approaches, or related design-for-manufacturing frameworks
  • You have research experience in numerical methods for PDEs: finite element methods, immersed/unfitted methods, homogenization, or isogeometric analysis are particularly relevant
  • You are proficient in Python; prior experience with the FEniCS library is a plus; C++ knowledge is an additional asset
  • You have strong computational skills, including the implementation of simulation and optimization pipelines; experience with HPC or large-scale scientific computing is a plus
  • You have a publication record (relative to your career stage) in internationally leading journals in computational mechanics, applied mathematics, or related areas
  • You are passionate about mathematics and scientific computing, and motivated by challenging problems
  • You are independent, creative, and solution-oriented, with strong self-management skills and the ability to drive research forward with limited supervision
  • You think critically and are eager to work at the interface of numerical simulation and structural design for lattice/metamaterial architectures
  • You communicate excellently in written and oral English
  • You are a team player, open to interdisciplinary collaboration

We offer

  • A stimulating and international working environment located in beautiful Switzerland
  • Competitive salary and excellent working conditions. More information can be found on our website
  • 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
  • Friendly and supportive team culture
  • A 1+1 years contract

If you are interested

Only applications submitted through the online platform are considered. You are asked to supply:

  • A brief cover letter (pdf, up to 2 pages).
  • A CV with a publication list.
  • Contact details for 2 referees.

For any further information, please contact: pablo.antolin AT epfl.ch

 

Starting date: September 1st 2026 (flexible)

Activity Rate: 100%

Duration: 1+1 years










Apply now »