About this role
Summary: The PhD position involves developing data-driven frameworks for scientific discovery in geomaterials, focusing on coupled multiphysics phenomena. The role combines computational mechanics, machine learning, and physics-based modeling to discover governing equations and constitutive relations.
Mission
The Data-Driven Mechanics Laboratory invites applications for a fully funded PhD position at
the intersection of computational mechanics, multiphysics of geomaterials, and interpretable
machine learning. The project focuses on the discovery of governing equations and constitutive
relations for key multiphysics phenomena on the basis of rich micromechanical and
experimental data. It pushes the boundaries of modeling and understanding crucial processes
in geomaterials across scales, with application to geophysics, energy and sustainability.
Main roles and responsibilities
The successful candidate will contribute to a next-generation data-driven framework for
scientific discovery in geomaterials. Research will involve the development of techniques
spanning mechanics and AI, including physics-based modeling across scales
(discrete/mesoscale/continuum), thermodynamics-informed machine learning and
neurosymbolic AI. They will also have the opportunity to lead international collaborations with
experimental research groups.
Requirements
● Master’s degree in Mechanics, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Geophysics,
Applied Mathematics, Computational Science or related areas.
● Strong computational/programming skills (Python/C/C++) including computational
mechanics, and scientific machine learning.
● Excellent English communication skills (oral and written).
We offer
● World-class multi-cultural environment on the shores of beautiful Lake Leman.
● Innovative interdisciplinary research at the Data-Driven Mechanics Lab.
● Exceptional research infrastructure and access to world-class computational resources.
● Competitive salary and employment conditions.
Informations
Please email a single PDF consisting of i) a Curriculum vitae (max. 2 pages) with contact details
of at least 2 referees, ii) Detailed transcripts, and iii) a Motivation letter (max. 1 page), to
konstantinos.karapiperis@epfl.ch, indicating in the subject “PhD Application LMD – Last Name”
until July 15th 2026. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis in the order that they are
received. For inquiries please contact Prof. Kostas Karapiperis at the same email.
Contract Start Date: Fall/Winter 2026
Activity Rate : 100.00
Contract Type: One-year renewable contract
Duration: 4 years
Reference: 2267