Postdoc in laser process monitoring and ML/AI-based control

Empa, institution de recherche de l'ETH Domain, se passionne pour la science des matériaux. Rejoignez un environnement dynamique, innovant et collaboratif.

Tâches

• Développer des méthodes AI/ML pour automatiser le traitement laser.

• Collaborer avec des experts en science des matériaux et physique laser.

• Publier et présenter vos recherches dans des revues et conférences.

Compétences

• PhD en ingénierie, physique ou science des matériaux requis.

• Compétences en programmation et en apprentissage automatique nécessaires.

• Bonne communication scientifique en anglais exigée.

Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.

Postdoc in laser process monitoring and ML/AI-based control

The Laboratory of Advanced Materials Processing (LAMP) is a multidisciplinary research unit that develops innovative functional modification of materials by beam (e.g. laser light, electrons) and plasma induced processing. LAMP provides full cycle technology development, starting from novel materials, deep understanding of the background physics of beam-matter interactions, development of automated AI/ML systems for novel materials processing and quality insurance. The lab combines additive manufacturing, large scale laser micro-processing, multiscale modelling and AI/ML for the quality monitoring/control, at the end offering to the society novel nanostructured materials, their shape-forming and integration into devices.

Your tasks

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join an applied research project focused on the development of AI/ML-based methods for the automation of laser processing techniques. In close collaboration with our industrial partner, you will design and implement innovative architectures for real-time detection and control of laser processes.

This interdisciplinary role combines artificial intelligence and machine learning with the physics of laser–matter interaction. Your developments will be directly validated through multiple experimental runs on state-of-the-art laser processing equipment. You will work closely with experts in material science, numerical modelling and laser physics, enabling you to integrate diverse expertise into robust control frameworks. This collaboration provides a unique opportunity to work with rich datasets, advanced analytical tools, high-performance computing infrastructure, cutting-edge photonic sources, and modern industrial machinery. In this position, you will contribute to ongoing research projects, publish your findings in peer-reviewed journals, and present your work at national and international conferences.

Your profile

We are searching for candidates who have completed their PhD in engineering, physics or material science. You are motivated and curious about AI/ML frameworks for monitoring and controlling materials processes. You are ready to discover the new horizons in laser processing and to bring your ideas in AI/ML to the technology level. You have a solid background in programming (deep learning, reinforcement learning, etc.), electronics, high-speed data acquisition and automatic control. The basic understanding of laser processing is beneficial, but not obligatory. Excellent skills in both, verbal and written scientific communication in English are mandatory. Mastering German and/or French are helpful but not mandatory.

Our offer

Empa offers a dynamic and inspiring research environment at its Thun campus, located near Bern. You will work on a scientifically and technologically cutting-edge topic of high relevance and novelty, with direct access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and equipment. As part of an experienced and multidisciplinary project team with strong national and international collaborations, you will receive full support in advancing the current project as well as in shaping and realizing your own scientific ideas within the lab's research activities. You will be encouraged and supported in producing high-impact results, publishing in leading international peer-reviewed journals, and pursuing your personal and professional development.

The position is available with a starting date in September-October 2025 and a duration of one year.

We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities - that's what counts.

We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.