Empa is the research institute for materials science and technology of the ETH Domain and conducts cutting-edge research for the benefit of industry and the well-being of society.
In line with Empa’s mission, the Technology and Society Laboratory (TSL) creates and transfers knowledge to support the transition to a more sustainability society. In particular, TSL analyses novel materials and emerging technology applications with a focus on associated material and energy stocks and flows, and evaluates them with regard to both natural environment and societal constraints.
Within TSL, the Environmental Risk Assessment and Management Group (ERAM), is looking for a PhD student modeling flows of plastics and associated chemicals (Project CIRPLUS). The PhD student will be responsible for developing a material flow analysis model of plastics and associated chemicals in the frame of the project “Developing an integrated framework for transitioning to a safe circular plastic economy: a use case study of Japan (CIRPLUS).”
CIRPLUS belongs to the Strategic Japanese-Swiss Science and Technology Programme, with the aim to develop an integrated framework, including methods, tools and data, for capturing the flows of chemical additives contained in plastics to inform the design of future circular plastic flows. The overall goal of the work performed at Empa is to develop novel integrated material flow analysis models of plastic flows and chemicals therein. The project implementation will be achieved in close collaboration with the project partner, the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) in Japan.
Your profile
- Master in environmental/natural sciences, chemistry or engineering
- Experience with modeling, programming, and chemicals/environmental assessment is highly appreciated
- Practical experience or good familiarity with plastic flows and/or chemicals therein will be an advantage
- Willingness to work closely and cooperate actively in a larger team
- Experience in scientific writing and publishing
- Excellent communication skills and fluency in English (both written and oral)