PhD Position on Antifragile Traffic Control in Urban Road Networks / PhD Position on Antifragile Traffic Control in Urban Road Networks

PhD Position on Antifragile Traffic Control in Urban Road Networks

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

We invite applications for a PhD position in the field of AI-driven Traffic Control and Antifragility in Urban Mobility Systems. The successful candidate will join a dynamic team at the Traffic Engineering Group (SVT) of the Institute for Transport Planning and Systems (IVT) at ETH Zurich.

The Traffic Engineering Group (SVT) of the Institute for Transport Planning and Systems (IVT) at ETH Zurich is focused on developing scalable optimization systems for operational support in large-scale road networks. Modeling and simulation serve as powerful tools for the development and validation of traffic management and control strategies in urban and freeway environments. Additionally, data-driven methodologies and machine learning present new opportunities for pioneering traffic management strategies, although they often lack physical intuition, creating challenges for large-scale deployment and public acceptance.

Project Background

Urban transport systems are increasingly challenged by growing traffic demand, modal shifts, and unexpected disruptions such as pandemics and climate shocks. This position is integral to the EU-funded AntifragiCity project, which aims to construct urban mobility systems that not only withstand these disruptions but also adapt and thrive, continually enhancing operational efficiency under stress.

Your work will contribute to the integration of learning-based traffic control methodologies, enabling adaptive, resilient, and self-improving traffic networks. The project encompasses the development of real-time AI models, simulation frameworks, and decision-support tools that effectively respond to stressors and inform long-term urban mobility policy.

Job Description

You will be expected to conduct research in the following areas:

• Design and evaluation of advanced traffic control strategies using learning-based algorithms
• Development of a simulation framework for stressor analysis and traffic equilibrium modeling
• Integration of predictive analytics and multi-agent reinforcement learning (MARL) into traffic control
• Design of scalable, modular methodologies for real-time disruption response and adaptation
• Contribution to system-level evaluation of antifragile attributes in urban road networks

Additional responsibilities will include:

• Publishing in top-tier scientific journals and presenting at leading conferences
• Assisting with BSc/MSc supervision and research proposals
• Teaching within the SVT course programme
• Contributing to the operation of the group and the Institute

Profile

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s degree in computer science, artificial intelligence, transportation engineering, or applied mathematics. A strong background in programming and machine learning is essential. We seek a proactive researcher who thrives in interdisciplinary environments.

Desired Skills and Expertise:

• Solid foundation in machine learning, reinforcement learning, or multi-agent systems
• Experience with traffic modeling, control algorithms, or transport simulation tools (e.g., SUMO, Aimsun)
• Strong programming skills
• Familiarity with AI robustness, fairness, and interpretability is a plus
• Interest in integrating AI with complex, dynamic systems like urban mobility
• Excellent team working and communication skills
• Outstanding command of English (knowledge of German is a plus)

Workplace

ETH Zurich offers a family-friendly environment with excellent working conditions. You can anticipate an exciting working atmosphere characterized by cultural diversity, as well as attractive offers and benefits.

We Offer

• Your role will have a significant impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, an institution committed to supporting your professional development while actively contributing to societal change.
• Commitment to sustainability and climate neutrality within the university.
• Generous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, diverse sports offerings through ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension benefits.

Valuing Diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity, values diversity, and nurtures a respectful working and learning environment for all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we maintain a fair and open atmosphere that enables everyone to thrive.

Interested? We Are Too!

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. We are renowned for our exceptional education, cutting-edge research, and the effective transfer of new knowledge into society. More than 30,000 individuals from over 120 countries find our university a place that fosters independent thought and inspires excellence. Nestled in the heart of Europe and connecting globally, we collaborate to address today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.