PhD Candidate in Computational Design and Digital Fabrication of High-Performance Timber Plate Structures / PhD Candidateess in Computational Design and Digital Fabrication of High-Performance Timber Plate Structures

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 facilitates world-class research in the fields of robotic fabrication in architecture and construction.

The Chair of Timber Structures advances education and research in timber engineering through the Program for Excellence in Timber Engineering. We are dedicated to educating the next generation of structural engineers, equipping them with deep technical knowledge and top-level competencies in the use of timber as a high-quality building material, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of the built environment.

Project Background

This PhD position is part of an interdisciplinary research initiative based at the Gramazio Kohler Research Chair. The project, titled "Connecting Physical Engineering and Digital Design: Enabling High-Performance Timber Plate Structures through Simplified Connections and Planning Processes," is a collaboration between Gramazio Kohler Research (Chair for Architecture and Digital Fabrication) 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 focus on interdisciplinary collaboration.
• The project will involve team-based, open-source software development to build planning automation tools and facilitate digital information exchange between 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.
• The PhD position (full-time) will span 4 years of research and is funded according to standard SNSF regulations.

Profile

• You possess a strong architectural or advanced technical degree, corresponding to the FHEQ-Level 7.
• We expect strong programming skills (preferably in Python) and several years of programming experience, along with profound knowledge of professional computer-aided design and 3D modeling.
• Experience in CAD/CAM (preferably McNeel Rhinoceros) and/or robotic fabrication, in addition to strong analytical and mathematical skills, is highly desirable.
• Previous experience in timber construction or structural engineering would be beneficial.
• Fluent English language skills are required; German fluency is not mandatory but will be advantageous.
• You should be reliable, motivated, and capable of working independently while also demonstrating excellent teamwork and communication skills.

Workplace

Join a vibrant and collaborative environment where innovation meets functionality, situated at the ETH Zurich campus.

We Offer

We take pride in cultivating an exciting and inclusive culture of excellence in research. We offer the following opportunities:

• 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 other technical disciplines.
• A dynamic 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. We emphasize equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a learning environment where the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to see how we foster a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is also at our core, and we continually strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

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 for at least two referees, with at least one uploaded reference letter

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further information, please visit the websites of Gramazio Kohler Research and the Chair of Timber Structures. Questions regarding the position can be directed via email to Dr. Oliver Bucklin at bucklin@arch.ethz.ch.

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 research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university a place that encourages independent thinking and fosters an environment that inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, we build connections globally, collaborating to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.