ETH Zürich invites applications for a fully funded 4-year doctoral position in Artistic Research, situated at the intersection of art and physics, with a focus on light, quantum optics, and observation. This unique interdisciplinary project is a collaboration between Prof. Dr. Rosa Barba (Chair of Art in Space and Time) and Prof. Dr. Puneet Murthy (Department of Physics), offering a rare opportunity to explore the synthesis of artistic and scientific perspectives.

The doctoral candidate will engage in transdisciplinary research combining artistic inquiry, expanded cinematic and installative practices, and quantum optics concepts. Responsibilities include co-developing the Art & Science laboratory, contributing to the ETH course 'Understanding Light,' collaborating with physicists in laboratory experiments, and producing both practical and theoretical research outcomes. The research is exploratory and practice-based, treating art and science as complementary modes of inquiry.

Applicants should have a background in art, architecture, film, or a related field, with a strong curiosity about the natural sciences and openness to laboratory work. A portfolio demonstrating experimental work in light, matter, perception, and physical phenomena is required. Candidates must be motivated to work in a research environment that values conceptual thinking, experimentation, and making, and should be comfortable with uncertainty and exploratory processes. Excellent English is required; other languages are an asset.

The position is fully funded according to ETH Zürich's doctoral student policy, with a standard salary and access to ETH’s laboratories, research spaces, and interdisciplinary networks. The successful candidate will be based at the Chair of Art in Space and Time, Department of Architecture, and will work closely with the Nanoscale Quantum Optics group in the Department of Physics. The program offers mentorship from both artistic and scientific supervisors and encourages diversity, inclusion, and sustainability.

To apply, candidates must submit a single PDF including verification of a Master’s degree, CV (max 5 pages), portfolio with artist statement (max 20 pages), research plan (max 5 pages), and two reference letters with contact details. The application deadline is 30 March 2026. For more information, visit the ETH Zürich job portal or contact [email protected].