PhD position in Decision Support at the Fleet Level ETH Zürich in Switzerland

ETH Zürich invites applications for a PhD position in Decision Support at the Fleet Level, hosted within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action Doctoral Network (MSCA DN) DIAMOND. This position is part of a pan-European initiative to advance decentralized, data-driven frameworks for robust monitoring and condition assessment of large fleets of civil infrastructure assets, such as bridges, railways, and wind turbines. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research network spanning leading academic institutions and industrial partners across Europe, with the opportunity for advanced training and secondments at Rambøll and CEA.

The research focus is on developing next-generation distributed intelligence and decision support systems for fleet-level monitoring. Key objectives include the creation of graph-based and stochastic models for decentralized condition assessment and predictive maintenance, as well as the integration of smart sensing, uncertainty quantification, and asset typologies into scalable, real-time decision-support modules. The project offers a unique multidisciplinary environment, combining civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering with computer science and applied mathematics.

Supervision will be provided by Prof. Eleni Chatzi (ETH Zurich, D-BAUG), with close collaboration from Dr. Michele Magno (ETH Zurich, D-ITET) and additional mentorship during secondments. The position is fully funded for 36 months under the MSCA DN DIAMOND program, including a competitive stipend, training opportunities, and industry exposure. The candidate will benefit from a strong career-defining network and gain expertise from research through innovation to industry implementation.

Applicants must hold a M.Sc. Diploma (120 ECTS points) or equivalent in relevant fields and be at the beginning of their research career. Required skills include numerical analysis, programming, high-performance computing, structural health monitoring, data analysis, and modelling, with a solid command of English. Candidates should demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, thrive in a multidisciplinary setting, and be willing to spend time at partner institutions. Eligibility criteria include not having been awarded a PhD and not having resided or carried out main activity in Switzerland for more than 12 months in the last 3 years.

ETH Zürich is committed to diversity, sustainability, and equal opportunity, fostering an inclusive environment for all staff and students. Applications are accepted exclusively via the ETH Zurich online portal, with review starting January 15th, 2026 and closing April 30th, 2026. Required documents include a letter of motivation, CV, designation for DIAMOND A-DC1, academic diplomas and certificates, and contact details for two referees. For further information, visit the Chair of Structural Mechanics and Monitoring at ETH Zurich or contact Prof. E. Chatzi at [email protected] (questions only).

Join ETH Zürich and the DIAMOND network to contribute to cutting-edge research in infrastructure monitoring and decision support, and develop skills for a broad landscape of future opportunities.