Lead Mechatronics Engineer / Lead Mechatronics Engineeress

ETH Zürich - February 22, 2026

Join Our Team at the Laboratory of Molecular Medicine

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

We are seeking a visionary Lead Mechatronics Engineer to drive the design and development of the V2.0 system in tandem with the Lead Architect. This role is critical to our goal of creating a 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: Proven track record in the physical realization of high-speed AFM hardware specifically for soft cell surfaces.
  • Control Systems: Expert knowledge of sub-nanometer control systems, exceeding the scope of generic mechatronics.
  • Collaborative Design: Ability to work closely with architects to solve complex system integration challenges.
  • Academic/Industrial Background: Experience in high-precision scanning mechanisms with a history of research-to-industry transitions.
  • Technical Synchronization: Work in alignment with the Lead Architect to ensure seamless hardware-software-architecture integration.
  • Prototyping: Oversee the transition 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 have the chance to lead the architectural development of a system that will redefine nano-imaging.

We foster a collaborative environment and will support your transition into the spin-off phase. Additionally, ETH Zurich offers assistance with permit processes (e.g., B-Permit sponsorship) for international candidates.

To apply, please submit your materials online using the form below:

  • Cover Letter
  • Curriculum Vitae (must 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.

If you have questions regarding the position, please reach out to Prof. Yohei Yamauchi at yohei.yamauchi@pharma.ethz.ch (please, no applications).

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

We would like to emphasize that the pre-selection is conducted by responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

Location : Zürich ETH-Zentrum
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

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

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