Lead Mechatronics Engineer / Lead Mechatronics Engineeress

ETH Zürich - February 4, 2026

Join Our Team at the Laboratory of Molecular Medicine

The Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, led by Prof. Yohei Yamauchi, is pioneering the development of the ViViD-AFM V2.0—a next-generation nano-imaging system. This exciting project focuses on the transition from academic prototypes to commercial-grade industrial systems, ensuring complete IP independence from legacy V1.0 patents.

Position: Lead Mechatronics Engineer

As we enter a transformative phase of the ViViD-AFM (Virus-View Dual Confocal and Atomic Force Microscopy) project, we are seeking a visionary Lead Mechatronics Engineer. This role will be instrumental in driving the design and development of the V2.0 system alongside the Lead Architect, marking a strategic hire aimed at realizing a next-generation high-speed AFM system tailored for biological research.

Key Responsibilities

  • Hardware Realization: Translate abstract architectural requirements into functional ViViD-AFM V2.0 mechatronic hardware.
  • Precision Engineering: Design and implement sub-nanometer control systems and high-precision scanning devices.
  • Specialized Mechatronics: Demonstrate a substantial track record in the realization of high-speed AFM hardware designed for soft cell surfaces.
  • Control Systems: Possess expert-level knowledge of sub-nanometer control systems, exceeding typical mechatronics scopes.
  • Collaborative Design: Exhibit proven ability to work closely with architects to solve complex system integration challenges.
  • Academic/Industrial Background: Have experience in high-precision scanning mechanisms with a history of transitioning from research to industry.
  • Technical Synchronization: Coordinate in immediate technical alignment with the Lead Architect to ensure seamless hardware-software-architecture integration.
  • Prototyping: Oversee the evolution from early-stage hardware components to a commercial-grade integrated device.

This position offers a unique opportunity to bridge high-level academic research at ETH Zurich with the dynamic environment of a high-tech startup. You will lead the architectural development of a system poised to redefine nano-imaging. We promote a highly collaborative environment and will aid your transition into the spin-off phase. ETH Zurich also provides assistance with permit processes (e.g., B-Permit sponsorship) for international candidates.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Please include the following documents:

  • Cover Letter
  • Curriculum Vitae (should detail extensive leadership experience in precision instrumentation architecture or high-speed AFM hardware)
  • List of Publications and Patents

For further information about ETH Zurich and the Yamauchi Lab, please visit our website.

Direct any questions regarding the position to Prof. Yohei Yamauchi at yohei.yamauchi@pharma.ethz.ch (please note, no applications will be accepted via email).

We would like to emphasize that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For recruitment services, the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.

Location : Zürich ETH-Zentrum
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

Please enter your information in the following form and attach your resume (CV)

Only pdf, Word, or OpenOffice file. Maximum file size: 3 MB.