Postdoctoral Researcher in Robot Learning
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
The Mobile Robotics Lab at ETH Zürich is at the forefront of advancing robot intelligence. Our mission is to explore how we can design robot policies that understand the complex world in which humans operate.
We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher in Robot Learning who is intrigued by the following questions:
- How can we fuse representations of the world with modern learning-based methods to support larger-scale and longer-horizon tasks?
- How can we leverage Foundation Models, VLMs, VLAs, and robot learning for complex, long-horizon tasks involving manipulation, locomotion, and navigation in unstructured and extensive environments?
Our research is conducted on a variety of real-world robots, including the Unitree G1 humanoid, Stretch 3, and drones. The Mobile Robotics Lab is engaged in several innovative research projects focusing on:
- Robot Learning
- Spatial AI
- Robot Perception
- Mobile Manipulation
- Navigation and Exploration
For details about our ongoing projects, please visit our homepage.
Job Description
- Lead and shape an independent research agenda in mobile robotics, pioneering the use of modern learning techniques including Foundation Models, VLMs, and VLA architectures for embodied intelligence.
- Supervise and enable high-impact research on the lab’s humanoid platform (Unitree G1), advancing sim-to-real transfer and semantic reasoning.
- Secure external funding (with strong institutional support) and foster collaborations within the ETH ecosystem.
- Co-supervise PhD and Master’s students, promoting a culture of technical excellence and ambitious experimentation.
- Participate in teaching activities, including the development of new course materials in robotics, perception, and autonomous systems.
Profile
- PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field, with impactful publications in prestigious venues (CORL, ICRA, RSS, NeurIPS, CVPR, etc.).
- Expert knowledge in modern Robot Learning.
- Proficiency in Python, C++, and modern tools such as IsaacLab and PyTorch.
- Visionary Drive: A self-motivated individual eager to lead a team toward ambitious goals—focused on solving robotics challenges rather than merely publishing.
- Excellent communication skills and a passion for mentoring the next generation of researchers.
Workplace
Located in Zurich, the Mobile Robotics Lab offers a dynamic environment for cutting-edge research and collaboration.
We Offer
- Opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research in collaboration with academic and industrial partners.
- A multidisciplinary team that bridges theoretical research and practical applications in robotics.
- Modern lab facilities with flexible working conditions within a leading-edge research atmosphere.
- Commitment to diversity through adaptable working hours and part-time arrangements.
We Value Diversity and Sustainability
ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity and respect for the rights and dignity of all our staff and students. For more information, visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is a core value, and we continually work towards a climate-neutral future.
Curious? So Are We.
We invite you to apply online using the form below. Please ensure that your application includes:
- CV
- Transcripts, including relevant publications
- Motivation letter
- References
For further information about the Mobile Robotics Lab, please visit our website. Queries regarding the position can be directed to Isabella De Nitti at isabella.denitti@mrl.ethz.ch (no applications).
Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education and cutting-edge research, we facilitate the direct transfer of knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. While located in the heart of Europe, we maintain global connections to tackle today's and tomorrow's challenges.