Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcheress in Soft Optical Fiber-Based Artificial Muscle for Biomedical Applications

Postdoc Position in Soft Optical Fiber-Based Artificial Muscle for Biomedical Applications

Location: 100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Robotic Materials group is seeking a highly motivated postdoc to explore the topic of soft optical fiber-based artificial muscle for biomedical applications. This 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 crucial role in the advent of the Information Age. One high-bandwidth fiber optic cable can replace thousands of electrical links to transmit the same amount of information. In parallel to the flourishing fields of soft devices and robots controlled by electrical signals, soft optics is emerging as a new platform that utilizes the modulation of light in soft matter to encode multifunctionalities in the optical path.

This project focuses on creating biocompatible, high-performance soft actuators multiplexed by light, all integrated on a miniature fiber, delivering advanced robotic and biomedical functions as minimally invasive surgical tools and implantable devices.

Job Description

• Develop biocompatible soft actuators controlled by light with performance matching benchmarked soft robotic actuators.
• Design and microfabricate soft optical fibers densely distributed with actuators.
• Develop actuator multiplexing methods for individual addressability.
• Demonstrate advanced robotic functions as minimally invasive surgical tools.
• Integrate with bioelectronic functions (e.g., sensing) for closed-loop controlled diagnostic and therapeutic functions.
• Demonstrate robotic/biomedical devices for real-world applications through collaborations.
• Supervise master/bachelor students.
• Serve as a teaching assistant for the robotic materials class.

Profile

• PhD degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields from a top university.
• Strong research track record in one or more of the following areas: bioelectronics, soft robotics, flexible electronics, fiber-based devices, functional materials, wearable systems, or biomedical devices.
• Hands-on experience in device design, prototyping, experimental characterization, and TRL 3-5 demonstrations.
• Knowledge of biomedical soft materials, textile/fiber processing, microfabrication, or soft actuators is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a passion for interdisciplinary research.

Workplace

The successful candidate will be part of an interdisciplinary, international, and diverse team at ETH Zurich, collaborating with academic, industrial, and clinical partners in materials science, robotics, and healthcare.

We Offer

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

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 in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us; we are committed to a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your application, which can be submitted online using the form below. Please ensure that your application includes:

• A cover letter
• CV
• Publication list with a few sentences highlighting representative works
• Contact details for two referees
• Optional: transcripts of academic records

The preferred start date is as soon as possible in the second quarter of 2026.

For further information about the Department of Materials, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Prof. Hedan Bai at hedan.bai@mat.ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is among the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society, we are home to over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries. Our university fosters independent thinking and creates an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe yet forging connections worldwide, we collaborate to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.