ETH Zurich
1 week ago
Doctoral Position in Uncertainty-Aware Condition Assessment of Tunnels ETH Zurich in Switzerland
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Doctoral position at ETH Zurich within an SNSF-funded interdisciplinary project (PRISM-T). The post is a fixed-term 100% PhD position; stipend/salary details are not stated in the post.
Deadline
Nov 9, 2026
Country
Switzerland
University
ETH Zurich

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About this position
Doctoral Position in Uncertainty-Aware Condition Assessment of Tunnels at ETH Zurich (Zurich, Switzerland).
This PhD opening is part of the SNSF-funded PRISM-T project, an interdisciplinary effort on predictive, resilient, integrated systems for tunnel management. The research focuses on transforming heterogeneous inspection and monitoring evidence into uncertainty-aware condition indicators for tunnel structures and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems within a digital twin.
The doctoral researcher will work on the evidence layer of the workflow: extracting defect and deterioration indicators from inspection images, video, sensor data, and periodic 3D laser scans; applying domain adaptation for tunnel environments; performing time-lapse change detection; and fusing multi-source evidence using a hierarchical Bayesian framework. The work also includes developing uncertainty models and evidence quality flags, contributing to the digital asset model, and integrating indicators into the digital twin prototype.
The project is closely linked to field validation at the Hagerbach Test Gallery in Flums and the EuroTube Foundation in Dübendorf, with regular underground field work and collaboration with the partner team in Bolzano. The broader project uses extended reality (XR) to support validation and maintenance decision-making.
Eligibility highlights: Master’s degree in civil engineering, geomatics, computer science, or a related field; strong background in machine learning, computer vision, or 3D point cloud processing; probabilistic modelling and Bayesian inference; strong Python programming; English proficiency required, German an asset.
Application deadline: 9 November 2026. Applications are accepted online only and will be reviewed starting on that date until the position is filled.
Funding details
Doctoral position at ETH Zurich within an SNSF-funded interdisciplinary project (PRISM-T). The post is a fixed-term 100% PhD position; stipend/salary details are not stated in the post.
What's required
A Master’s degree in civil engineering, geomatics, computer science, or a related field is required. Applicants should have a strong background in machine learning, computer vision, or 3D point cloud processing, as well as probabilistic modelling and Bayesian inference. Very good programming skills, preferably in Python, are expected. Familiarity with digital twins, BIM/IFC, sensor data processing, or tunnel inspection is an advantage. Willingness to do field work in underground environments, collaborate in an interdisciplinary international team, and proficiency in written and spoken English are required; German is an asset.
How to apply
Apply online through ETH Zurich’s application portal only. Submit a letter of interest with research ideas, a CV including publications if applicable and contact details of at least two referees, and grades of all university courses plus diplomas. Email and postal applications will not be considered.
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