PhD Position in Light Controlled Variable Stiffness for Soft Robotics / PhD Position in Light Controlled Variable Stiffness for Soft Robotics

PhD Position in Light-Controlled Variable Stiffness for Soft Robotics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Robotic Materials group is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to explore the topic of light-programmable stiffness for reconfigurable soft devices and robots. This 4-year PhD position is funded by our ERC Starting Grant.

Project Background

The introduction of fiber optics in the 1970s revolutionized the telecommunications industry, replacing copper wires and playing a pivotal role in the advent of the Information Age. A single high-bandwidth fiber optic cable can replace thousands of electrical connections, transmitting equivalent amounts of information. In parallel, as soft devices and robots controlled by electrical signals thrive, soft optics is emerging as a new platform that utilizes light modulation in soft matter to encode multifunctionalities along the optical path.

The first phase of this project will focus on developing light-stimulated stiffness programming methods that exceed the performance of current variable stiffness benchmarks. The latter phase will apply these principles to various soft device and robotic systems to demonstrate their reconfigurability and multifunctionality for real-world tasks.

Job Description

• Creation of methods to program material stiffness in situ with light, aiming for high stiffness contrast (rigid-soft), fast transition (1s), and compact design (mm scale).
• Characterization and development of theoretical understanding through multiphysics simulation.
• Development, design, and fabrication of an active soft robotic morphing surface for reconfigurable shape and texture camouflage.
• Development, design, and fabrication of reconfigurable soft robotic actuators for in situ programming of actuation modality and force.
• Demonstration of robotic and biomedical devices for real-world applications through collaborations.
• Supervising master's and bachelor's students.
• Serving as a teaching assistant for the robotic materials class.

This is a full-time position that begins as soon as possible. Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Profile

• MS degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields from a top-notch university.
• Candidates with strong research backgrounds in soft robotics, smart materials, or related fields—especially those with experience in variable stiffness materials and robots—are highly encouraged to apply.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a passion for interdisciplinary research.

Workplace

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We promote an inclusive culture that values diversity and nurtures a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected.

We Offer

• A productive working environment with regular training and guidance from the Principal Investigator.
• Competitive salary according to ETH standards (fully funded, full-time, fixed-term position).
• An interdisciplinary, international, and diverse team of talents, fostering a stimulating and collaborative group atmosphere.
• Strong connections with academic, industrial, and clinical partners in materials science, robotics, and healthcare.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your application with the following documents as a single PDF:

• A cover letter
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• A publication list, if any, highlighting representative works
• Contact details of two referees
• Transcripts of academic records

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled. The preferred start date is as soon as possible in the second quarter of 2026. For further information, please contact Prof. Hedan Bai at hedan.bai@mat.ethz.ch. All applications should be submitted through this portal, as applications via email may not be considered due to the high volume.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. We cultivate a place where independent thinking thrives and excellence is inspired. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections globally, striving together to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's challenges.