Scientific Assistant / Scientific Assistantess

Scientific Assistant in the Optimization of Rail System Development Processes

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Chair of Infrastructure Management, led by Professor Dr. Bryan T. Adey at the Institute of Construction and Infrastructure Management (IBI) within the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering (D-BAUG), is seeking a dedicated researcher focused on data and process analysis to enable digitalized railway operations.

Project Background

Safe and efficient railway systems traditionally rely on centralized control and human-in-the-loop monitoring of their moving parts. However, this dependency requires significant resources for network operation. Operators tasked with implementing system developments based on innovative technologies to enhance operational efficiency must adhere to stringent safety requirements for scalable and thoroughly documented solutions to gain regulatory approval. This often necessitates consideration of approximately 50-80 interconnected documents for the development of a new system, depending on the complexity of the technology involved.

Over the long-duration development process, adjustments to the solution may be necessary, leading to changes in the interdependent documentation to ensure ongoing compliance with safety standards. Such changes can trigger cascading effects throughout the entire project, potentially increasing costs and delaying development, which, in turn, slows down innovation within the railway system.

The new ETH project, ProCargo, co-funded by the Swiss Federal Railways via the ETH Mobility Initiative, aims to assess potential improvements in rail system development processes, particularly in the cargo sector. By optimally exploiting digital tools, such as large language models, the project seeks to streamline these processes, allowing for a more effective and efficient workflow. This approach will assist system developers in navigating interdependencies and maintaining document coherence while ensuring a safe rail system. The overall goal is to facilitate a smoother development process for system developers and to benefit society by enabling the earlier implementation of safe system developments and their positive impacts.

Job Description

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

• Synthesizing and communicating the system development process relevant to SBB Cargo, comparing it to the European system development.
• Identifying process improvement opportunities for the development of safety-critical rail systems.
• Analyzing findings and proposing hypotheses for potential process changes, including the implementation of digital support tools, and conducting preliminary assessments of these changes.

The selected candidate will collaborate closely with another researcher and the Development Systems Engineering team at SBB Cargo. Depending on the candidate's interests and available funding opportunities, this position may lead to a doctoral role.

Profile

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field with a keen interest in data and process analysis, particularly in rail systems development.
• A good understanding of existing system development processes and enthusiasm for learning about artificial intelligence tools, such as large language models.
• Proficient communication and presentation skills. While English is the primary working language, proficiency in German would be a valuable asset.

We Offer

ETH Zurich stands as one of the world’s leading institutions specializing in science and technology, renowned for its excellent education, pioneering research, and direct application of new knowledge in society. With a vibrant community of over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and creates an environment that inspires excellence. Positioned in the heart of Europe, and connected globally, we collaborate to tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow.

We Value Diversity

At ETH Zurich, we promote an inclusive culture. We emphasize equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to see how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and thrive.

Curious? So Are We!

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further details about the position, please contact Ms. Natalie Dietrich via email: dietrich@ibi.baug.ethz.ch (applications will not be accepted via email) and visit our website.

Applications are open until the position is filled. The preferred start date is October 1, 2025, although other start dates may be considered.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With a diverse community of over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, we serve as a catalyst for independent thinking and inspire excellence within a unique environment. Located in the heart of Europe while fostering global connections, we work collaboratively to develop innovative solutions for the challenges of our time.