PhD position in Soft Robotics Systems ETH Zürich in Switzerland

The Soft Robotics Lab at ETH Zürich, part of the Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, is offering a PhD position focused on the design, fabrication, and real-world testing of musculoskeletal soft robots. The lab’s mission is to advance robotics by building flexible, dexterous, and adaptive machines inspired by biological bodies. Recent projects include robotic fish for underwater locomotion, soft robotic hands for pick-and-place tasks, and multi-segment arms for dynamic object manipulation.

As a PhD researcher, you will lead the development of artificial musculoskeletal robots, working across mechanical design, compliant actuation, fabrication, electronics, and control. The role emphasizes hands-on prototyping and iterative experimentation, drawing inspiration from biological musculoskeletal systems to engineer bones, joints, tendons, and muscles using compliant materials and actuators. The goal is to achieve rich, adaptive robot behavior with less reliance on complex centralized control, delivering complete systems from single actuated joints to integrated multi-segment limbs and full musculoskeletal bodies.

Collaboration is central to the project, requiring close interaction with the lab’s machine learning and muscle teams to integrate learning-based control and sensing with biological and artificial muscle technology. The lab offers access to state-of-the-art fabrication facilities and a multidisciplinary robotics ecosystem at ETH Zürich.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, robotics, mechatronics, electrical engineering, or a related field, with demonstrated hands-on experience in building physical systems (prototyping, CAD, fabrication, electronics, or robot integration). A working knowledge of actuation, mechanism design, control, or embedded systems is required, along with prior research experience and strong English communication skills. Motivation for interdisciplinary, experimental research and a collaborative mindset are essential. Background or interest in soft robotics, bio-inspired design, or musculoskeletal systems is a plus.

ETH Zürich is renowned for its excellence in science and technology, offering a diverse and inclusive environment, professional development opportunities, and benefits such as public transport tickets, sports facilities, childcare, and pension plans. The university values sustainability and equality of opportunity, fostering a climate-neutral future and a fair, open environment for all staff and students.

To apply, submit your online application via the ETH Zurich portal, including a cover letter, CV, transcripts, references, and representative research work as a single merged PDF. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. For questions about the position, contact Dr. Federica Poltronieri at [email protected] (no applications).

Join ETH Zürich and contribute to cutting-edge research in soft robotics, working in a world-class lab and multidisciplinary team to develop the next generation of lifelike, capable machines.