PhD Researcher in Digital Health and Soft Robotics for Neurorehabilitation (PDTx) ETH Zürich in Switzerland

The Singapore-ETH Centre, established by ETH Zürich and Singapore’s National Research Foundation, is a leading hub for research on urban sustainability, resilience, and health. This PhD position is part of the Future Health Technologies (FHT) programme, focusing on scalable solutions for neurorehabilitation, particularly for stroke survivors. The project aims to address the growing demand for long-term rehabilitation by developing a soft robotic hand orthosis and an AI-based digital health intervention to support clinic-to-home rehabilitation.

Building on prior work, the project will scale up innovative rehabilitation technologies and conduct extensive clinical evaluations. The PhD researcher will be responsible for designing and developing a digital platform, including an LLM-based conversational agent delivered via a mobile app. This platform will interface with the soft hand exoskeleton, enabling data transfer, real-time feedback, and remote monitoring. The app will be validated through a clinical trial to assess its impact on patient adherence to home-based rehabilitation.

Key responsibilities include gathering evidence and stakeholder input to define technical and functional requirements, developing and validating machine learning models for motivation and adherence, app development and integration with rehabilitation hardware, and planning and coordinating clinical studies with local hospitals. The role involves close collaboration with research partners at Nanyang Technological University and Tan Tock Seng Hospital, as well as contributing to supervision of master students and dissemination of research outcomes.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in relevant fields (Computer Science, Software Engineering, Health Sciences and Technology, Information Systems, Informatics), hands-on experience in machine learning, app development (preferably mHealth), proficiency in Python and JavaScript/Typescript, and familiarity with cloud platforms. Prior experience with LLM integration is advantageous. Strong communication skills, motivation for translational research, independence, and scientific curiosity are essential.

ETH Zürich offers a diverse and inclusive workplace, comprehensive healthcare insurance, annual dental benefits, 25 days annual leave, 1 day Birthday Leave, flexible hybrid work arrangements, and abundant networking opportunities. The Singapore-ETH Centre is committed to equal opportunity and family-friendly employment practices.

To apply, submit your application online via the ETH Zürich portal, including a cover letter, CV with references, and university transcripts. For questions, contact Prof. Dr. Olivier Lambercy at [email protected]. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

ETH Zürich is renowned for its excellence in science and technology, fostering independent thinking and providing an inspiring environment for over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries. The university is dedicated to sustainability and diversity, working towards a climate-neutral future and promoting equality of opportunity.