PhD Candidate in Visual Computing and (Self-)calibration for XR Devices / PhD Candidate in Visual Computing and (Self-)calibration for XR Devices

PhD Position in Visual Computing and (Self-)Calibration for XR Devices

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Computational Design Lab at ETH Zurich, led by Prof. Dr. Bernd Bickel, is an interdisciplinary research group dedicated to the development of innovative algorithms and the next generation of computational systems. Our focus encompasses interactive design, geometry processing, spatial computing, creative AI, and computational fabrication.

Project Background

We are seeking a curious and motivated PhD student to join the Computational Design Lab and work at the intersection of computer vision, computer graphics, hardware, and extended reality (XR). This project is part of ETHAR, a pioneering research initiative supported by a generous donation from Google, aimed at advancing Augmented Reality. The goal is to develop new methods and systems for calibrating XR devices, under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Bernd Bickel and Prof. Dr. Marc Pollefeys.

Job Description

• You will design, develop, and evaluate methods, algorithms, and systems for a novel online calibration framework that leverages deep learning to intelligently fuse data from various sensors (IMU, cameras, eye-trackers).
• This involves training models on a high-fidelity digital twin and exploring neural methods to infer key attributes, such as camera parameters, from real-world sensor data, resulting in a system that adapts seamlessly to physical perturbations and changing user contexts.
• You will manage the typical scientific research workflow, including problem motivation, identifying methodological shortcomings in literature, designing and developing novel systems, planning and conducting experiments, and reporting findings in articles for top venues.
• Periodic meetings and constructive feedback will support the success of your degree and the overall project.
• The position is available starting February 2026, with some flexibility.

Profile

• A strong interest and motivation to contribute to the project's goals.
• An outstanding academic record, with an excellent Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related fields.
• Demonstrated experience and passion in at least one of the following areas: Computer Vision, Computer Graphics, Computational Imaging, VR/AR Displays & Wearables, Deep Optics.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a passion for research.
• Strong programming skills and proficiency with differentiable simulation frameworks are a plus.
• Excellent verbal, written, and visual communication skills in English, enabling effective communication in a diverse, international environment.

Workplace

The successful candidate will work in a collaborative and inspiring atmosphere within an interdisciplinary team, with the opportunity to pursue a PhD degree from ETH Zurich. We promote professional growth while contributing positively to society.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity and support diversity, ensuring a respectful working and learning environment for all staff and students. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we strive toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite interested candidates to 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, renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the transfer of knowledge into society. Our community consists of over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, all dedicated to independent thinking and striving for excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, ETH Zurich contributes to solving global challenges through collaboration and innovation.