PhD Candidate in Human-Computer Interaction and Extended Reality in Architectural Design and Fabrication / PhD Candidate in Human-Computer Interaction and Extended Reality in Architectural Design and Fabrication

PhD Position in Human-Computer Interaction and Extended Reality in Architectural Design and Fabrication

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Human-Computer Interaction in Architecture and Digital Fabrication

This fully funded, full-time PhD position spans four years and is embedded within the interdisciplinary research environment at the Professorship of Architecture and Human Augmentation at ETH Zürich. We are seeking a highly self-driven and motivated researcher committed to rigorous and applied research within an interdisciplinary academic environment. The research focuses on human-computer interaction (HCI) in architectural design and fabrication, with a particular emphasis on extended reality (XR), machine vision, and human-robot collaboration.

Project Background

The research investigates how interactive computational tools, extended reality (XR), and robotic systems can augment human agency in architectural production. It examines the roles of interfaces, feedback systems, and embodied interaction in bridging design intent, material behaviour, and robotic execution across design-to-fabrication workflows. The work will develop within the following research streams:

• Developing tools and workflows to efficiently assess discarded materials
• Creating a digital inventory of reclaimed components
• Developing computational representations of assembly and disassembly processes
• Establishing a robust pipeline linking this inventory to CAD models

Job Description

As a PhD candidate, you will conduct original research, design and run studies, develop and evaluate prototypes, analyze data, and disseminate results through publications and presentations. You will collaborate closely with the research team and partners, contribute to lab life, and support teaching and student supervision. Key tasks include:

• Conduct independent research within the project scope
• Perform literature reviews and maintain awareness of related work
• Design and run experiments/case studies
• Document research thoroughly (version control, lab notebooks, protocols, datasets)
• Collect, clean, and analyze data using appropriate methods (e.g., qualitative coding, statistics, simulation, ML)
• Publish results in peer-reviewed venues (conferences/journals) and contribute to paper writing
• Support lab operations as needed (maintaining equipment, onboarding, shared infrastructure)

Teaching

• Assist with teaching (TA, tutorials, crit sessions) and supervise student projects
• Mentor junior students (Bachelor/Master) and contribute to studio/course activities

Software/Engineering

• Implement research code and maintain repositories (testing, documentation, reproducibility)

Grants/Reporting

• Contribute to grant writing, progress reports, and project administration

Profile

• You hold an architectural or advanced technical degree corresponding to FHEQ Level 7
• You have a strong interest in programming and, ideally, experience with Python and C# coding language
• You are proficient in 3D modelling environments and XR software; experience with Rhinoceros, Grasshopper, and Unity is an advantage
• Experience in robotic fabrication, digital fabrication, or human-robot interaction is highly desirable
• Familiarity with XR technologies, UX development, or experimental prototyping is an asset
• You are fluent in English (written and spoken)

Workplace

ETH Zurich offers an engaging international community of researchers and educators, providing access to state-of-the-art computational, XR, and robotic fabrication infrastructure. You will have the opportunity to pursue doctoral research at a world-renowned academic institution and collaborate closely with researchers across architecture, robotics, computer science, and engineering.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

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 staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• Letter of motivation
• CV and Portfolio
• Two reference letters

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For informal enquiries about the position, contact Fabio Scotto at scotto@arch.ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is among 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 a place that promotes independent thinking and an inspiring environment for excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while forging connections worldwide, we work together to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.