RobotX PhD Program
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
RobotX, the center for robotics at ETH Zurich, is continuously in search of exceptional PhD students who are eager to advance the field of robotics through innovative research.
Job Description
The affiliated research groups of the center offer a broad spectrum of research topics in robotics, including but not limited to:
- Soft and Musculoskeletal Robotics: Designing and fabricating bioinspired robots using compliant materials for adaptable and safe interactions in an unstructured world.
- Robotic Locomotion and Manipulation: Creating innovative solutions for legged robots and robotic manipulators to enhance mobility and interaction in complex terrains.
- Biohybrid Robots: Developing robots that integrate living cells, tissues, and synthetic materials powered by chemical energy, capable of interacting with and reasoning about the world.
- Perception and Computer Vision: Advancing techniques in 3D modeling, object recognition, and environmental perception to improve robotic sensing capabilities.
- Human-Robot Interaction: Investigating sensory-motor actions and interactions between humans and machines to enable or enhance supportive and cooperative tasks.
- Computational Design and Fabrication: Utilizing numerical simulations and computational methods to create bioinspired and efficient robotic designs.
- Reinforcement Learning and Machine Learning: Applying data-driven approaches to enable robots to learn and adapt to new tasks and environments.
- Autonomous Vehicles and Transportation Networks: Focusing on planning and control strategies for autonomous cars and integrated transportation systems.
- Motion Planning and Control: Developing advanced algorithms for autonomous navigation, control, and decision-making in dynamic environments.
- Safety-Critical Robotic Systems: Ensuring high performance and reliability in robots operating under uncertain and variable conditions, particularly in systems involving human interactions.
Profile
- Outstanding academic record from a top university.
- Demonstrated experience relevant to one or more of the research topics listed above.
- Excellent problem-solving abilities and a deep passion for research.
- Strong programming skills and proficiency with robotic frameworks are a plus.
Workplace
Join a vibrant academic and research environment at ETH Zurich, where you will have the opportunity to collaborate with leading experts in the field of robotics.
We Offer
- Your Career with Impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, an institution that not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive societal change.
- Sustainability Commitment: We are dedicated to maintaining a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
- Attractive Benefits: Enjoy numerous advantages such as public transport season tickets, car sharing options, a wide range of sports facilities offered by ASVZ, childcare support, and attractive pension benefits.
We Value Diversity
At ETH Zurich, we champion 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 foster a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive.
Curious? So Are We.
We look forward to your online application. Apply online using the form below. Please include the following documents in a single merged PDF document, titled with your last name and initials as well as the application date (for example, 20250301_DoeJane_application) in the following order:
- Cover letter detailing your research motivation, interests, and experience.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Academic transcripts of all degrees in English (Bachelor's and Master's).
- Three professional reference contacts, including email and direct phone number.
- A publication or thesis work that showcases your academic reasoning and writing.
Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
About ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich is among the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our exceptional education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals 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 while forging connections around the globe, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.