The Robotic Materials group is looking for a highly motivated PhD student to work on programmable materials that access multiple distinct mechanical states for next-generation robotic matter systems. This 4-year PhD position is fully funded.

Project background

Modern robots increasingly rely on sophisticated mechanisms, such as modular architectures, reconfigurable linkages, deployable structures, and variable-stiffness components, to adapt their bodies to different tasks and environments. However, such adaptability is often achieved by changing geometry, connectivity, or control strategies, while the underlying material properties remain largely fixed.

This project explores a more fundamental route: robotic matter whose constitutive properties can be programmed on demand. By enabling mechanical modulus, viscoelastic response, and flow behavior to be reconfigured within a single continuous body, we aim to move beyond adaptive hardware architectures towards materials that actively participate in robotic function. The long-term vision is to create robots that can tune their physical embodiment through the programmable properties of matter itself.

Job description

Design, synthesis, and rheological characterization of dynamic covalent polymer composites targeting programmable mechanical state transitions
Development of theoretical understanding and multiphysics simulation of material behavior across mechanical regimes
Fabrication and integration of materials into soft robotic demonstrators showcasing multi-state control under external stimuli
Development of spatial addressability strategies to achieve localized state modulation in a continuous material body
Demonstration of robotic functions (locomotion, grasping, navigation through constrictions) that exploit multi-state material behavior
Supervision of bachelor/master students and participation in teaching

This is a full-time position that starts as soon as possible. Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Profile

MS degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields from a leading university
Strong research track record in one or more of the following: dynamic covalent networks, phase-change materials, rheology of complex materials, stimuli-responsive polymers, or soft robotics
Enthusiasm for fundamental materials challenges with a drive toward robotic applications
Excellent problem-solving abilities and comfort with interdisciplinary work spanning chemistry, mechanics, and robotics
Experience with polymer synthesis, mechanical testing, or material fabrication is a strong plus

Workplace

We offer

A productive working environment with training and guidance from the PI on a regular basis
Competitive salary according to ETH standards (fully funded, full-time, fixed term position)
An interdisciplinary, international, and diverse team of talents and a stimulating, vibrant, collaborative group
Strong connections with academic, industrial, and clinical partners in materials science, robotics, and healthcare

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your application with the following documents as a single PDF:

A cover letter
CV
Publication list, if any, with a few sentences highlighting representative works
Contact details of two referees
Transcripts of academic records

Further information about the Department of Materials can be found on our Website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Hedan Bai, [email protected] (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled. The preferred start date is as soon as possible in the 3rd/4th quarter of 2026.

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