Postdoctoral Researcher in Advanced Flexure-Mechanism Design (W/M)

h3Mission /h3 pThe Micromechanical and Horological Design Laboratory (INSTANT-LAB) at EPFL invites applications for a postdoctoral research position in advanced flexure-mechanism design. /p pFlexure-based mechanisms achieve motion through the elastic deformation of slender structural elements rather than through conventional sliding or rolling joints. As a class of compliant mechanisms, they enable exceptional motion precision in demanding environments such as space systems, cryogenic applications, ultra-clean settings, microelectromechanical systems, and surgical instruments. /p pTheir main advantages include frictionless operation, the absence of backlash, reduced maintenance requirements, excellent repeatability, and long service life. Their monolithic architecture also facilitates miniaturization and simplifies manufacturing by eliminating assembly steps. /p pDespite significant advances in the field, flexure-mechanism design continues to be constrained by performance trade-offs. Improvements in motion range, load-carrying capability, or stiffness often result in compromises elsewhere. In addition, high-performance designs are frequently sensitive to manufacturing variations, requiring tight tolerances and increasing production costs. /p h3Main duties and responsibilities /h3 pHe or she will contribute to the development of a new design and modelling framework for flexure-based mechanisms that simultaneously addresses multiple performance criteria and robustness to manufacturing tolerances. /p pThe project combines fundamental research supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation with an industrial collaboration supported by the Swiss Innovation Agency. The successful candidate will work closely with an industrial partner whose products rely on advanced adjustable-stiffness flexure-based load cells. /p pHe or she will build upon more than fourteen years of expertise developed within INSTANT-LAB, an established patent portfolio, and long-standing industrial collaborations. /p pThe main responsibilities include: /p ul liDeveloping analytical and numerical models for flexure-based mechanisms; /li liDesigning innovative precision-engineering solutions; /li liConducting experimental validation and performance testing; /li liPublishing research results in leading scientific journals; /li liCollaborating with academic and industrial partners; /li liContributing to the advancement of the laboratory's research activities. /li /ul h3Profile /h3 ul liPhD in Mechanical Engineering, Microengineering, Robotics, or a closely related field; /li liExpertise in analytical and numerical structural mechanics, mechanical design, and precision engineering; /li liAt least two peer-reviewed journal publications; /li liStrong experimental skills and a practical, hands-on approach; /li liExperience in industrial collaborations is considered an asset; /li liStrong motivation for interdisciplinary research; /li liAbility to work independently while contributing effectively to a team environment; /li liCreative, solution-oriented, and open-minded attitude; /li liExcellent command of English; knowledge of French is an advantage. /li /ul h3We offer /h3 ul liRenewable one-year fixed-term contract; /li liCompetitive remuneration package; /li liOpportunities for international collaboration and research visits; /li liAccess to state-of-the‑art research facilities; /li liA stimulating scientific and entrepreneurial environment; /li liA position located at the EPFL campus in Neuchâtel. /li /ul pContract Start Date : 01/01/2027 /p pActivity Rate : 100.00 /p pContract Type: CDD /p pDuration: 1 year renewable /p pReference: 2501 /p #J-18808-Ljbffr