The Chair of Infrastructure Management, led by Professor Dr. Bryan T. Adey at the Institute of Construction and Infrastructure Management (IBI) in the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering (D-BAUG), is seeking a researcher focused on data and process analysis to enable digitalized railway operations.
Safe and efficient railway systems traditionally rely on centralized control and human-in-the-loop monitoring of their moving parts. However, these systems often require significant resources for network operation. Operators are responsible for implementing system developments based on innovative technologies to enhance operational efficiency while ensuring adherence to safety requirements for scalable and well-documented solutions that meet regulatory approval. This process can involve the consideration of approximately 50-80 interconnected documents for the development of a new system, depending on the complexity of the technology. Over the course of long-term development, it may be necessary to make adjustments to the solution, which in turn requires changes to the interdependent documentation to maintain ongoing compliance with safety standards. Such changes can trigger cascading effects throughout the entire project, potentially increasing costs and delaying development, thereby hindering innovation within the railway system.
A new ETH project, “ProCargo,” co-funded by the Swiss Federal Railways via the ETH Mobility Initiative, aims to assess the potential for improving processes in rail system development to unlock efficiency gains, particularly within the cargo sector. The optimal utilization of digital tools in system development processes facilitates effective and efficient operations. By leveraging digital tools, such as large language models, it is possible to learn from system developers’ documentation and assist them in proposing modifications. This will help digital planners maintain an overview of interdependencies, ensure coherence between documents, and uphold the safety of rail systems, ultimately benefiting both system developers and society through more timely implementations of safe system advancements.
The successful candidate will collaborate closely with another researcher and the Development Systems Engineering team at SBB Cargo. Depending on the interests of the applicant and available funding, this role may evolve into a doctoral position.
We are looking for candidates who possess a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field, demonstrating an interest in data and process analysis, as well as a passion for rail system development. Familiarity with existing system development processes and a willingness to learn about artificial intelligence tools, such as large language models, would be advantageous. The working language is English, although proficiency in German would be beneficial for the project. Strong communication and presentation skills are highly valued.
ETH Zurich is recognized as one of the world’s leading universities in science and technology, known for outstanding education, pioneering research, and direct applications of new knowledge in society. With over 30,000 individuals hailing from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and an environment that encourages excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we establish connections worldwide to develop innovative solutions to the global challenges of today and tomorrow.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online using the form below. Only applications that match the job profile will be considered.
For further inquiries about the position, please contact Ms. Natalie Dietrich via email at dietrich@ibi.baug.ethz.ch (please note, applications cannot be submitted via email) and visit our website at www.ibi.baug.ethz.ch.
Screening of applications will commence on 21 August 2025. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The preferred starting date is 01 October 2025, although other start dates may be considered.
Location : Zürich ETH-Hönggerberg
Country : Switzerland