Structural Engineer

The Block Research Group (BRG) at the Institute of Technology in Architecture led by Prof. Dr. Philippe Block and Dr. Tom Van Mele, has three core areas of research: equilibrium analysis and design of vaulted masonry structures, computational form finding and structural optimisation of curved surface structures, and fabrication and construction of novel shell structures, particularly in unreinforced masonry and concrete. Translating research into practice, the BRG develops novel computational structural design strategies to utilise digital fabrication and to push construction innovation. To address the grand challenges posed by climate change, the group’s research follows the motto “strength through geometry” to reduce embodied carbon, use fewer resources and minimise waste.

Together with the support of implementation partners from the construction industry, the Block Research Group will further develop a structural system and fabrication method for floors that consume significantly less material, allow the use of materials with a reduced environmental impact as compared to conventional slabs, and improve productivity on the construction site.

The proposed arched floor system differs fundamentally from state-of-the-art prefab floors that rely on bending. Instead, the Rippmann Floor System (RFS) carries loads efficiently in compression through a rib-stiffened shell and absorbs tension with external ties. The system not only requires significantly less material than traditional floor slabs but also, due to low internal stresses, has the potential to be produced from environmentally-friendly, low-stress materials such as recycled concrete or materials from mineral waste. Furthermore, by separating tension and compression and no longer embedding reinforcement steel inside the concrete, additional opportunities arise for robust maintenance strategies and end-of-life recyclability and/or reuse.

A dedicated project team is being formed to investigate various aspects of the RFS with the goal of developing an industry-ready version of the system that can be implemented in a pilot project.

Reference: www.bit.ly/36nGgMP

You will be part of the team in charge of the development of the RFS towards its first large-scale application. You will work under the supervision of a senior engineer to analyse the behaviour of the RFS as part of the global building system as well as to develop and design structural details to ensure optimal performance and code compliance.

Responsibilities
As a member of the project team, you will actively participate in the design process of structural engineering activities relating to the project and be responsible for preparing and developing calculations, reports, structural drawings, specifications and other documents relating to the design.

Employment type
Full-time (100%) is preferred, but part-time (at least 60%) is possible. This is a fixed-term contract, initially for 6 months (1 month trial period) but extendable based on the success of the project and evaluation of performance. The preferred starting date is as soon as possible.

• A postgraduate degree at the MSc level or higher in structural engineering
• 2-3 years of experience working in structural engineering practice, including design and delivery of complex projects
• Experience in FEM (any software) is a requirement
• Excellent technical and design skills
• Experience in high-rises and/or prefabrication is a plus
• Excellent organisational skills
• Strong written, verbal and graphical communication skills (English)
• Ability to manage sensitive and confidential information
• Results-driven, resourceful, self-motivated and willing to take responsibility
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work as a part of an effective team
• Some experience with (Python) programming is a plus
• Some experience with parametric modelling is a plus

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Cover letter
• CV
• References
• Short portfolio (optional but recommended)

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the Block Research Group can be found on our website www.block.arch.ethz.ch. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Noelle Paulson at paulson@arch.ethz.ch (no applications).