PhD Position: Computational Design and Digital Fabrication of high-performance timber plate structures (Male/Female)

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 realm of robotic fabrication in architecture and construction.

The Chair of Timber Structures enhances education and research in timber engineering through the Program for Excellence in Timber Engineering. Our goal is to equip the next generation of structural engineers 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 project based at Gramazio Kohler Research titled Connecting Physical Engineering and Digital Design: Enabling High-Performance Timber Plate Structures through Simplified Connections and Planning Processes. The project represents 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 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 have a strong architectural or advanced technical degree, corresponding to the FHEQ-Level 7.
• We expect strong programming skills (preferably Python), several years of programming experience, and profound knowledge of professional computer-aided design and 3D modeling.
• Experience in CAD/CAM (preferably McNeel Rhinoceros) and/or robotic fabrication is desired, along with strong analytical and mathematical skills.
• Previous experience in timber construction or structural engineering will be beneficial.
• Fluent English language skills are required; German fluency is not required but will be advantageous.
• You should be reliable, motivated, and able to work independently while also possessing excellent teamwork and communication skills.

Workplace

The chosen candidate will be part of a dynamic and collaborative research environment at ETH Zurich, fostering innovation and excellence in the field of architectural design and digital fabrication.

We Offer

We are proud to cultivate an exciting and inclusive culture of excellence in research. We offer the following:

• Opportunity to 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 lively 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 encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all our 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 application online using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• Letter of motivation
• CV
• Architecture Portfolio showcasing computation design experience
• Electronic copies of your academic diplomas and certificates
• Contact details from at least 2 referees, with at least 1 uploaded reference letter

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 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 promotes independent thinking and fosters an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.