Behavioral Lab Operator / Behavioral Lab Operatoress

Behavioral Lab Operator

80%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Decision Science Laboratory at ETH Zurich (DeSciL) invites applications for a technical laboratory operations associate position starting between October 2025 and November 2025.

The ETH DeSciL serves as a vital service center that supports researchers in conducting human subject trials and behavioral experiments in both laboratory and online environments, as well as managing survey and data collection projects.

Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated project team member who is eager to contribute to laboratory and online research in the Humanities and Social Sciences. As an active team member, you will collaborate with a dynamic and international team of researchers and developers to operate and further advance the research platform.

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Conducting human subject trials in both laboratory and online environments.
• DevOps - supporting daily research platform operations in collaboration with the development team, performing database updates and data integrity checks.
• Software Development - implementing and testing new features.
• Platform Analytics - regularly analyzing user behavior.

This position is based at the Decision Science Laboratory at ETH Zurich under the guidance of Dr. Stefan Wehrli. You will closely collaborate with the entire team. Please note that this position is limited to one year due to third-party funding.

Profile

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a Social Science discipline, paired with strong software engineering skills.
• Relevant work experience, preferably in software development or applied research projects.
• Proficient software development and scripting skills, particularly with automation tools (PowerShell, Bash, Python). Experience in using Git for version control is essential.
• Data analysis skills using R and Python.
• Experience with behavioral toolboxes like PsychoPy, z-Tree, oTree, or Matlab Psychtoolbox is a plus.
• A proactive, problem-solving attitude with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team.
• Fluency in English; proficiency in German is an advantage.

Workplace

The position offers the opportunity to work in a highly collaborative environment within a motivated and supportive team, engaging in multiple projects to assist research teams across various disciplines.

We Offer

• Engagement in diverse projects that support research teams in the Humanities and Social Sciences.
• A highly collaborative work environment.
• Salary and pension benefits according to ETH standards.

We Value Diversity

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity. We cherish diversity and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn about how we maintain a fair and open environment that enables everyone to thrive.

Curious? So Are We.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

If you have questions about the position, please contact the laboratory manager, Dr. Stefan Wehrli, via email at wehrlist@ethz.ch (Subject: Behavioral Lab Operator).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich stands as one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe and connected globally, we collaborate to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.