PhD Candidate in Computational Design and Digital Fabrication of High-Performance Timber Plate Structures (Male/Female)

PhD Position: Computational Design and Digital Fabrication of High-Performance Timber Plate Structures

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Gramazio Kohler Research, the Chair of Architecture and Digital Fabrication at the Institute of Technology in Architecture, operates at the forefront of architectural design and production enabled through digital manufacturing techniques. Our infrastructure includes the Robotic Fabrication Laboratory (RFL), a unique digital construction environment that enables world-class research in robotic fabrication within architecture and construction.

The Chair of Timber Structures enhances education and research in timber engineering through the Program for Excellence in Timber Engineering. We prepare the next generation of structural engineers by equipping them with profound technical knowledge and top-level competencies in the use of timber as a sustainable building material.

Project Background

This PhD position is part of an interdisciplinary research project titled "Connecting Physical Engineering and Digital Design: Enabling High-Performance Timber Plate Structures through Simplified Connections and Planning Processes." This initiative is a collaboration between Gramazio Kohler Research at ETH Zurich and the Chair for Timber Structures (Prof. Dr. Andrea Frangi).

Job Description

• The objective of this PhD position is to investigate methods and techniques for the planning, fabrication, and construction of timber plate structures, with a particular emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration.
• The project will involve team-based, open-source software development to create planning automation tools and facilitate digital information exchange among AEC disciplines.
• Specific topics of investigation may include computational design, timber construction, CNC fabrication, robotic assembly, plate structures, semantic data models, finite element analysis, and plugin development.
• This full-time PhD position will span four years of research and is funded according to standard SNSF regulations.

Profile

• You hold a strong architectural or advanced technical degree corresponding to FHEQ-Level 7.
• You possess robust programming skills (preferably in Python) and have multiple years of programming experience, along with deep knowledge of professional computer-aided design and 3D modeling.
• Experience in CAD/CAM (preferably with McNeel Rhinoceros) and/or robotic fabrication is a plus, as are strong analytical and mathematical skills.
• Previous experience in timber construction or structural engineering will be beneficial.
• Fluent English skills are essential for this position; German proficiency is not required but will be advantageous.
• You should be reliable, motivated, and capable of working independently while also demonstrating excellent teamwork and communication skills.

Workplace

ETH Zurich is a landmark institution where innovative research and teaching converge, fostering a vibrant academic atmosphere.

We Offer

We are committed to cultivating an exciting and inclusive culture of excellence in research. We provide:

• Opportunities to conduct research at a world-renowned academic institution.
• Access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities in the Robotic Fabrication Lab.
• Collaborative exchange with researchers from various technical disciplines.
• A lively and engaging community of researchers and educators.
• Professional development and networking through collaboration with industry partners.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture that values diversity and fosters a working and learning environment where equality of opportunity is paramount. We are dedicated to sustainability and continuously strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• Letter of motivation
• CV
• Architecture Portfolio showcasing computational design experience
• Electronic copies of your academic diplomas and certificates
• Contact details from at least two referees, including at least one uploaded reference letter

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. Applications will be reviewed starting immediately, with an intended start date of April 1, 2026.

For further information, please visit the website of Gramazio Kohler Research and the Chair of Timber Structures. Questions regarding the position should be directed via email to Dr. Oliver Bucklin at bucklin@arch.ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society, we host over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries. Our university is a hub for independent thought and an inspiring environment that encourages excellence, committed to collaborating on solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.