Interaction Designer / Interaction Designeress

Interaction Designer

60%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

We are seeking a creative Interaction Designer to craft compelling visual experiences and digital assets. You will play a pivotal role in transforming complex data and concepts into clear, engaging visuals, collaborating closely with our engineering team to bring innovative ideas to life.

The scope of work may vary, with 60% for a single project or, for the right candidate, extending to 100% for two projects.

Project Background

We are collaborating with partners from both academia and industry on pioneering visualization projects. Our main research at the IVIA lab focuses on studying interactive human-AI collaboration interfaces, geared toward effective problem-solving and decision-making. We aim to empower individuals by creating synergies between humans and AI agents in co-adaptive processes. To support our initiatives, we are looking for a motivated Interaction Designer to join our interdisciplinary team. The ideal candidate brings a structured and hands-on approach to their work and thrives in a collaborative environment.

This position is offered on a fixed-term basis for one year.

Job Description

• Design and create digital assets, including icons, SVGs, illustrations, and logos.
• Develop interactive widgets and visualizations that elucidate complex content, integrating gamification elements such as storytelling and seamless state transitions.
• Create mockups, wireframes, and prototypes using Figma, Penpot, or similar tools.
• Design modern, visually appealing web layouts and user interface components.
• Produce data visualizations (static, animated, or interactive) utilizing tools like d3.js.
• Collaborate with developers to ensure designs translate seamlessly into code.
• Contribute to brand identity, including logo development and visual guidelines.

Profile

• Degree in Interaction Design, Visual Communication, Graphic Design, or a related field.
• A background as a Motion Designer, 2D Animator, or Digital Illustrator/Animator is highly valued.
• A portfolio showcasing relevant past projects, including web design, gamification, animation, and interactive visuals.
• Proficiency in design tools: Figma, Penpot, and Adobe Creative Suite (specifically After Effects); experience with Affinity Suite is a plus.
• Experience in creating SVG assets and vector graphics for the web.
• Familiarity with HTML/CSS and basic front-end concepts; experience with Onlook is advantageous.
• Knowledge of d3.js or other visualization libraries is a strong plus.
• Experience with real camera recording embeddings is an asset, but not essential.
• Strong eye for typography, color, and layout.
• Able to distill complex information into clear visual narratives.
• Experience with research or scientific communication is a plus.
• A proactive and creative thinker who enjoys iterative design processes.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken), with effective communication skills; German language skills are beneficial.

Workplace

Join ETH Zurich, where we foster a collaborative and innovative environment that values diverse perspectives and sustainable practices.

We Offer

• Your role will make an impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, an institution that supports your professional development while contributing positively to society.
• Engage in an exciting and varied workload across dynamic projects.
• Work alongside a highly committed multidisciplinary team.
• Participate in regular meetings and close collaboration with Sinergia project partners.
• Enjoy numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports through ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

Aligned with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We advocate for equality of opportunity, embrace diversity, and cultivate a work and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value; we aim for a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For additional information about us, visit our website. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Matthias Gabathuler at matthias.gabathuler@inf.ethz.ch. (Please note that no applications will be accepted via email.)

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and effective knowledge transfer into society, we host over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Our institution encourages independent thinking in a stimulating environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we build connections worldwide to address today's and tomorrow's global challenges.