PhD Candidate on Antifragile Traffic Control in Urban Road Networks

PhD Position on Antifragile Traffic Control in Urban Road Networks

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

We invite applications for a PhD position in the field of AI-driven Traffic Control and Antifragility in Urban Mobility Systems. The successful candidate will join a dynamic team at the Traffic Engineering Group (SVT) of the Institute for Transport Planning and Systems (IVT), ETH Zurich.

The Traffic Engineering group (SVT) of the Institute for Transport Planning and Systems (IVT) at ETH Zurich intends to develop scalable optimization systems for operational support in large-scale road networks. Modeling and simulation are powerful tools for the development and validation of traffic management and control strategies in urban and freeway environments. At the same time, data-driven methodologies and machine learning offer new opportunities for optimal traffic management strategies, but they often lack physical intuition, which creates obstacles to large-scale deployment and public acceptability.

Project Background

Urban transport systems face increasing challenges from growing traffic demand, modal shifts, and black swan events (e.g., pandemics, climate shocks). The position is relevant to the EU-funded AntifragiCity project that aims to build urban mobility systems that not only withstand these disruptions but adapt and benefit from them, continuously enhancing their operational efficiency under stress.

With the integration of learning-based traffic control methodologies, we aim to realize adaptive, resilient, and self-improving traffic networks. This involves the development of real-time AI models, simulation frameworks, and decision-support tools that respond effectively to stressors and inform long-term urban mobility policy.

Job Description

You will be expected to conduct research in the following areas:

• Design and evaluation of advanced traffic control strategies using learning-based algorithms
• Development of a simulation framework for stressor analysis and traffic equilibrium modeling
• Integration of predictive analytics and multi-agent reinforcement learning (MARL) into traffic control
• Design of scalable, modular methodologies for real-time disruption response and adaptation
• Contribution to system-level evaluation of antifragile attributes in urban road networks

Additional responsibilities include:

• Publishing in top-tier scientific journals and presenting at leading conferences
• Assisting with BSc/MSc supervision and research proposals
• Teaching within the SVT course programme
• Contributing to the operation of the group and the Institute

Profile

You ideally have a Master's degree in computer science, artificial intelligence, transportation engineering, or applied mathematics. A strong background in programming and machine learning is essential. You are a proactive researcher who thrives in interdisciplinary environments.

Desired Skills and Expertise:

• Strong foundations in machine learning, reinforcement learning, or multi-agent systems
• Experience with traffic modeling, control algorithms, or transport simulation tools (e.g., SUMO, Aimsun)
• Solid knowledge of programming
• Familiarity with AI robustness, fairness, and interpretability is a plus
• Interest in the integration of AI with complex, dynamic systems like urban mobility
• Team working and communication skills
• Excellent command of English (German is a plus)

Workplace

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity, and attractive offers and benefits.

We Offer

• Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive change in society
• We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university
• You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits

We Value Diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So Are We.

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

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.