Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcheress in Optically Multiplexed Soft Robotic Actuators

Postdoc and PhD Positions in Optically Multiplexed Soft Robotic Actuators

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Robotic Materials group is seeking two postdocs and one PhD candidate for a project funded by the ERC Starting Grant: "Distributed Addressable Robotic Material via Wavelength-Division-Multiplexing (ColorfulAct)." ColorfulAct aims to establish the building blocks of physical intelligence alongside artificial intelligence nodes and connections. Our goal is to develop distributed and addressable robotic actuating materials that demonstrate multifunctionality through the broad bandwidth of light.

The Robotic Materials group, led by Prof. Hedan Bai in the Department of Materials, was established in October 2023. We are an international and interdisciplinary team of material scientists, roboticists, engineers, and chemists passionate about advancing futuristic robotics. Our bottom-up approach focuses on developing soft materials and devices that allow for innovative forms and unconventional functions across various robotic applications.

Job Description

Track 1: Fiber-based Soft Optical Actuator

• Design and fabrication of high-performance soft optical actuators.
• Design, modeling, and scalable manufacturing of miniature, highly integrated fiber actuators.
• Demonstration of multifunctional soft robotic systems.

Track 2: Soft Optical Actuator and Network

• Design and fabrication of high-performance soft optical actuators.
• Design, modeling, and fabrication of soft optical networks for light multiplexing.
• System-level demonstrations to enable new robotic functions through distributed actuation.

Track 3: Biomedical Soft Robot with Light

• Design and synthesis of biocompatible soft materials for high-performance optical actuation.
• Design and fabrication of minimally invasive soft robotic devices (surgical tools/implants).
• Proof-of-concept demonstrations in medical robotics applications.

All Tracks:

• Supervise master/bachelor students.
• Act as a teaching assistant for the robotic materials class.

Profile

Must-Haves for Postdocs (All Tracks):

• PhD degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field from a top university.
• Strong experimental background with documented achievements (publications, patents, prototypes, or competitions) in soft actuators, devices, or robotic materials.
• Ability to independently lead research projects and mentor junior researchers.
• Strong communication skills for effective collaboration across disciplines.

Must-Haves for PhD Candidates (All Tracks):

• A master's degree and an outstanding academic record from a top university in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated research experience in soft actuators, optics, materials design, or biomedical robotics.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a passion for interdisciplinary research.

Preferred Expertise (Nice-to-Have):

• Track 1: Advanced experience in fiber manufacturing or functional fiber integration; microfabrication.
• Track 2: Background in optics and experience with soft optical devices; microfabrication.
• Track 3: Skills in polymer/biomaterial synthesis and characterization for robotic applications.

Workplace

The Robotic Materials group offers a productive working environment, providing training and regular guidance from the principal investigator. You will join an interdisciplinary, international, and diverse team of professionals while engaging in stimulating research and collaboration.

We Value Diversity

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment for everyone.

Curious? So Are We!

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

We look forward to receiving your application, which should include the following documents as a single PDF:

• A cover letter indicating which track you are applying for (Track 1/2/3, or a combination).
• CV.
• Publication list with a few sentences highlighting representative works.
• Contact details of two referees.

The preferred start date is December 1st, 2025. Applications received before October 15th, 2025 will be fully considered. For further information, please contact Prof. Hedan Bai at hedan.bai@mat.ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education and cutting-edge fundamental research, we directly transfer new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.