Job opportunity

Student Assistant - GenAI-R&D for Future-Proof Teaching / Student Assistant - GenAI-R&D for Future-Proof Teaching

ETH Zurich Zürich July 15, 2025

Student Assistant - GenAI-R&D for Future-Proof Teaching

20%-30%, Zurich, fixed-term

The GenAI-R&D for Future-Proof Teaching group at the ETH AI Center (Zürich-Oerlikon) is dedicated to building fully open-source systems that aim to transform the learning experience for students and instructors alike. Our focus is on innovative tools like chatbots, automatic problem generation, and automated feedback for handwritten exercises.

Project Background

After successfully supporting 2,000 students per semester with the first-generation Ethel ecosystem, we are now scaling EthelFlow (agent-based core) and EthelApp (front-end for desktop & mobile) to accommodate 20,000 students across a diverse range of STEM courses. The platform integrates large language and vision models with symbolic math, statistical tools, and agent-based human-in-the-loop workflow management. This enables us to develop:

  • Course-specific chatbots
  • Automatic practice-problem generation
  • Feedback on handwritten or coded exercises
  • Assistance in grading handwritten exams

In this role, you will collaborate closely with faculty, staff, and master's students across ETH, converting applied research ideas into production-quality code. Our processes are lightweight and agile, focusing on short-term goals, rapid iterations, and direct interaction with instructors and other stakeholders. All of our code is open and freely available under GNU-GPL.

Job Description

As a Student Assistant, your primary responsibility will be to support our team in developing and enhancing educational software. Key tasks will include:

  • Implementing new features using React and TypeScript
  • Assisting with Python-based agent pipelines
  • Testing tools for recognizing handwritten math, diagrams, or code
  • Maintaining clear documentation and contributing to our open-source community by reviewing code contributions

Profile

  • You are a student enrolled at ETH or at a Swiss University
  • Basic experience with React and TypeScript
  • Familiarity with Python
  • Comfortable working on Linux systems
  • Interest in or familiarity with Docker (training will be provided)
  • Good communication skills in English
  • Curiosity and eagerness to learn new technologies
  • Experience with Git
  • Availability to work on-site at the ETH AI Center in Zürich-Oerlikon approximately half a day per week

Nice to Have

  • Interest in educational technology
  • Familiarity with LaTeX

Workplace

The role is located at the ETH AI Center in Zürich-Oerlikon, a vibrant hub for innovation and collaboration.

We Offer

  • Practical experience in cutting-edge educational technology and AI
  • A flexible and supportive working environment
  • Direct mentorship from experienced software engineers and researchers
  • An opportunity to contribute to impactful open-source projects

We Value Diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture. We are committed to equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where 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 supportive environment that allows everyone to thrive.

Curious? So Are We!

To express your interest in this position, please apply online using the form below. Ensure that your application includes the following documents:

  • CV
  • A short motivation statement explaining your interest in this role

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 our exceptional education and pioneering research, we facilitate the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, yet with global connections, we collaborate to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.

Work locationZürich, Switzerland

Application Form

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