Electrical Engineer / Electrical Engineeress

Department of Health Sciences and Technology, D-HEST

At ETH Zurich, in close collaboration with the spin-off optohive, we are developing a new generation of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) technology to enable fast, wearable brain recordings. A central element of this project is the integration of a custom application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

About the Rehabilitation Engineering Lab (RELab)

The Rehabilitation Engineering Lab (RELab) at the Department of Health Sciences and Technology at ETH Zurich is pioneering next-generation brain imaging technologies. RELab is an interdisciplinary research group with expertise in mechanical and electrical engineering, movement science, neurorehabilitation, and neuroscience.

The lab utilizes robotics, wearable sensor technologies, and non-invasive neuroimaging to explore, assess, and restore sensorimotor function in individuals with neurological injury, with the overarching goal of promoting recovery and independence. A strong focus of RELab lies in understanding brain function and translating this knowledge into practical, real-world applications.

Job Overview

In this role, you will define system- and ASIC-level requirements, supervise the ASIC development in collaboration with external partners, validate its performance, and integrate it into a new generation of our brain imaging hardware. We are seeking an accomplished electrical engineer with significant experience in analog electronics, PCB design, and system integration who will take technical ownership of the electronics development at the system level.

Your Responsibilities

• Technical supervision of an ASIC development project, including:
• Definition of system and ASIC-level requirements, based on the existing setup
• Interface definition (analog, digital, power, timing)
• Review of design choices in close collaboration with ASIC designers
• Validation strategy and test concept definition
• System-level integration of the ASIC into the existing electronics framework
• Development of the electronic architecture based on the ASIC, including:
• PCB / PCBA design and review
• Power management and signal integrity
• Optical front-end integration (emitters, detectors, analog chains)
• Close collaboration with firmware, software, and optics teams to ensure end-to-end system performance
• Definition and execution of validation and verification procedures at electronics and system level
• Support of prototyping, testing, and early manufacturing ramp-up
• Documentation of designs, requirements, and validation results in line with medical-device-oriented development

Your Qualifications

• MSc in electrical engineering, microelectronics, or a closely related field
• Proven experience with analog front-end design and translating system requirements into ASIC development projects (hands-on or supervisory)
• Strong background in mixed-signal electronics, analog front-ends, and low-noise design
• Experience with PCB design and system-level electronics integration
• Experience with firmware (C++) and software (Python) development
• Familiarity with optical systems and optoelectronic components is a strong plus
• Experience working with external development partners or foundries
• Structured, system-oriented thinking with a strong focus on validation and robustness
• Ability to work hands-on while maintaining a system-level perspective
• Excellent written and spoken English; German is a plus

What We Offer

Join a collaborative and stimulating environment within a motivated and multidisciplinary team. This key technical role will shape the core hardware of our next product generation, providing high ownership and responsibility in a small, highly skilled group. You will work at the intersection of ASIC design, optics, and medical-grade electronics, collaborating closely with leading researchers, clinicians, and industry partners. There are strong professional growth opportunities available.

We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university. You can expect numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Further Information

For more information about RELab and optohive, please visit our website or LinkedIn. If you have any questions regarding the position, please reach out to Dr. Dominik Wyser at dominik.wyser@hest.ethz.ch (no applications).