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 with a strong commitment to rigorous and applied research within an interdisciplinary academic context. The research focuses on human-computer interaction (HCI) in architectural design and fabrication, emphasizing 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. Specifically, 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. Your tasks will 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 Responsibilities

• 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 languages
• You are proficient in 3D modeling 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 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 fosters independent thinking and 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.

We Offer

• The opportunity to pursue doctoral research at a world-renowned academic institution
• Access to state-of-the-art computational, XR, and robotic fabrication infrastructure
• Close collaboration with researchers across architecture, robotics, computer science, and engineering
• An engaged international community of researchers and educators
• Professional development and networking opportunities through academic and industry collaborations

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

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.