Electrical Engineer / Electrical Engineeress

Department of Health Sciences and Technology, D-HEST

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

About the Role

In this role, you will be responsible for defining and overseeing the requirements for the ASIC development, integrating it into custom PCB designs, and developing the complete measurement unit.

The Rehabilitation Engineering Lab (RELab) at the Department of Health Sciences and Technology at ETH Zurich is at the forefront of developing next-generation brain imaging technologies. RELab is an interdisciplinary research group specializing in mechanical and electrical engineering, movement science, neurorehabilitation, and neuroscience. We leverage robotics, wearable sensor technologies, and non-invasive neuroimaging to explore, assess, and restore sensorimotor function in individuals with neurological injuries, promoting recovery and independence.

A strong focus of RELab lies in understanding brain function and translating this knowledge into real-world applications. Following this approach, we have developed our proprietary brain imaging system based on fNIRS, which has been successfully spun out of ETH Zurich.

You will define system- and ASIC-level requirements, supervise the ASIC development carried out in collaboration with an external group, validate its performance, and integrate it into a new generation of our brain imaging hardware.

Your Responsibilities

• Technical supervision of an ASIC development project, including:
  • Definition of system and ASIC-level requirements based on existing setups
  • Interface definition (analog, digital, power, timing)
  • Review of design choices in 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 the 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 us in a collaborative and stimulating environment where you'll be part of a motivated, multidisciplinary team. In this key technical role, you'll shape the core hardware of our next product generation and enjoy high ownership and responsibility within a small, highly skilled team. You'll work at the intersection of ASIC design, optics, and medical-grade electronics, collaborating closely with leading researchers, clinicians, and industry partners.

We are committed to your professional growth and offer numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, a wide range of sports offered by ASVZ, childcare support, and attractive pension benefits.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

We look forward to receiving your application, which should include:

• A cover letter outlining your motivation and experience in the field, including your earliest possible starting date
• Your CV, including degree certificates
• Your transcript of records

For further information about RELab and optohive, please visit our website or LinkedIn page. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Dominik Wyser at dominik.wyser@hest.ethz.ch (no applications).