ETH Zurich, Switzerland invites online Application for number of Fully Funded PhD Degree at various Departments. We are providing a list of Fully Funded PhD Programs available at ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
Eligible candidate may Apply as soon as possible.
(01) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD position in THz dynamics of quantum materials
The aim of this project is to investigate ultrafast dynamics of quantum materials, with a focus on the THz frequency range. Our goal is to investigate the dynamical response of the system once it is brought out of equilibrium following excitation by an ultrashort pulse of optical or THz light. The knowledge acquired from this study will enable a better control of the properties of quantum materials and will inform theory developments that seek to model ultrafast material responses.
This project will be based in Prof. Elsa Abreu’s Quantum Material Dynamics group at ETH Zürich, in the Institute for Quantum Electronics.
Deadline : Open until filled
(02) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Position in Machine Learning for Very Long Baseline Interferometry
The selected PhD candidate will join an innovative research team to explore cutting-edge techniques in VLBI.
The primary objective is to develop and apply novel strategies based on AI/machine learning (ML) to enhance VLBI data analysis and simulation. Specific tasks include:
- Designing and training ML models on VLBI observations and analysis residuals
- Simulation of space geodetic observations using AI/ML
- Contributing to the integration of ML methodologies in the context of VGOS and the Genesis mission
- Collaborating with the international VLBI and Genesis research communities to align developments with emerging needs and standards
In addition to research responsibilities, the candidate will contribute to teaching activities and the supervision of student projects.
Deadline : Open until filled
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(03) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Position in Decarbonizing the Future of the Chemical Industry
The work will be carried out in an interdisciplinary team at the Ecological Systems Design Group. The primary objective of this doctoral project is to define and assess transition pathways for sustainable chemical supply chains on a global scale. The project aims to develop a comprehensive framework that integrates site-level data with industry-wide models to evaluate both current and future chemical production processes. Your work will involve setting up a database of global chemical production sites, focusing on production amounts, energy use, and regionalized environmental impacts. You will utilize existing high-quality data sources, commercial databases, and machine-learning-augmented life cycle assessment (LCA) tools to generate energy and mass balances for key production processes. A significant part of the project will be linking these production activities with regional energy supplies to trace the interconnected chemical supply chains, allowing for a detailed life cycle impact assessment.
You will be responsible for developing methods to quantify and evaluate the environmental impacts of novel chemical production pathways, focusing on the integration of alternative raw materials (e.g., biogenic sources) and innovative recycling approaches (e.g. chemical recycling). Additionally, your research will explore feedback loops between process advances (such as catalyst or solvent development) and the overall sustainability transition of the chemical industry. Throughout the project, you will collaborate closely with industry stakeholders and academic experts to validate your models and ensure the applicability of your findings. An integral part of your work is publishing your results in peer-reviewed journals and presenting them at international conferences.
Deadline : Open until filled
(04) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: Doctoral fellowship in History and Theory of Architecture (2 positions)
Conduct original doctoral research on an individually determined topic within the history and theory of architecture and urbanism. The fellowship places no restriction on the geography or time period of the proposed research project.
The doctoral fellowships are funded for three years (100%, ETH Standard Rate) with the possibility of renewal for one additional year.
Deadline : Open until filled
(05) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD position in Sustainable Networking
Our approach to sustainable networking is primarily applied and operational: we aim to improve the sustainability of the Internet today, rather than in theory. We are interested in and considering all ideas that can contribute to that objective.
As a new group member, you are supposed to contribute to our research activities and gradually build your own independent research profile according to your interests. You are expected to work towards a doctoral degree and participate in our teaching activities.
Deadline : Open until filled
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(06) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD student in Embedded Systems & Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Ranging
- Design, develop, and test embedded systems hardware (PCBs) and firmware.
- Integrate MCUs with sensors, ensuring reliable communication and data handling.
- Develop UWB-based communication and ranging algorithms.
- Contribute to system-level performance optimization and experimental validation.
- Implement basic feedback control for robotics tasks.
Deadline : Open until filled
(07) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Position (1 of 3) in Earthquake Seismology and Hydromechanics
This PhD project (#1) focuses on the relation between seismicity and fault network architecture. The target fault zone of the FEAR project is exceptionally well constrained, by different types of data sets, including active seismic campaigns, borehole analyses and very high sensitivity seismicity catalogues. This extensive data coverage presents a unique opportunity to study how seismicity reflects fault zone properties, and – in turn – how fault zone properties affect seismicity patterns.
To what extent does fault zone structure affect or even dominate the spatial distribution of hypocentres and focal mechanisms? How does the relative abundance of on- and off-fault seismicity vary in space (across the fault network) and in time (before and after larger ruptures)? What precursory patterns precede larger events, and how do they relate to the fault network? Can we anticipate which fault segments are most likely to rupture in a fault activation experiment, given the segments’ orientation, size and macroscopic roughness? To what extent may fault network structure limit the growth of quakes beyond a maximum magnitude?
The successful candidate will focus on these and similar questions, using the exceptional data sets from the upcoming major FEAR experiments. The candidate will expand existing fault network reconstruction algorithms, using supervised and unsupervised deep learning methods. The algorithms will be designed to use seismicity along with the full range of complementary input data (e.g. strain, borehole and geologic observations), to infer a detailed 3D discrete fracture network model of the target fault zone of the FEAR project. They will use the inferred 3D model to study how fault network properties affect seismicity and earthquake source characteristics. In this process, they will interact closely with PhD #2, to study the relation between seismicity and fault zone hydromechanics, and with PhD #3, to study the relation between seismicity and rupture dynamics of the larger ruptures. The research of all three PhDs may have important consequences for our understanding of earthquake physics, earthquake hazard, and the safe generation of deep geothermal energy.
Deadline : Open until filled
(08) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: Doctoral Fellowship in Landscape and Urban Studies
We are seeking individuals with a background in architecture, landscape architecture, urban and territorial design and planning, and the social sciences, who have strong research or design experience and can benefit from the inter- and transdisciplinary engagements offered by the Institute.
Applicants must hold a university diploma or master’s degree obtained at university level (equivalent to FHEQ Level 7) in architecture, landscape architecture, urban design, urban planning, social sciences, or related fields.
Deadline : Open until filled
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(09) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Position (3 of 3) in Earthquake Seismology and Hydromechanics
This PhD project (#3) focuses on studying dynamic rupture models on finite faults in the context of induced seismicity—seismic events primarily triggered by variations in normal stress due to changes in pore pressure. Understanding these processes is crucial for advancing earthquake physics and fault zone processes.
The fault zone targeted by the FEAR project is exceptionally well constrained through a variety of datasets, including active seismic campaigns, borehole analyses, and seismicity catalogues. Additionally, the zone is equipped with an array of seismic, strain, and pressure sensors, providing high-resolution data. Effective dynamic modeling of induced seismicity relies on understanding fault zone properties, fault geometry, and an integrated hydromechanical model
Deadline : Open until filled
(10) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Position (2 of 3) in Earthquake Seismology and Hydromechanics
The project of PhD #2 focusses on the hydromechanical phenomena that are key drivers for induced seismicity. While the pressure field leading to induced earthquakes is often represented with simplified flow geometries, actual flow fields in complex faults may be strongly heterogeneous and often channelized. The poroelastic field produced by these flow and pressure patterns must be interpreted by considering their full complexity. Only then can induced seismicity patterns (PhD#1) and rupture dynamics models (PhD#3) be embedded in a hydromechanical understanding of a complex fracture zone.
This PhD project will expand on the geological, and hydrological characterization of the target fault zone of FEAR to understand the flow dimensionality as well as heterogeneity of the flow field based on tests at different pressure levels and depths of investigation from the test boreholes. A conceptual heterogeneous hydrogeological model is built and linked to poroelastic signals recorded on strain and pressure sensors as well as at special probes dedicated to inferring 3D dislocation along the reactivated fracture system. Finally, conceptual models and observations will be supported by numerical models that allow representing the full hydromechanical responses to fluid injections. The hydromechanical understanding thus acquired is strongly linked to the induced seismicity characteristics inferred by the PhD #1 in two ways; hydromechanical models help understanding induced seismicity patterns, while these patterns in turn help building the heterogeneous hydromechanical models. Similarly, the hydromechanical models are also related to the rupture dynamics models of PhD #3. Thus, the research of all three PhDs together not only improve our understanding of earthquake physics and earthquake hazard, but also helps the safe development of geoenergy resources.
Deadline : Open until filled
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(11) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD student in Human-Computer Interaction: AI-based Touch Input Detection, Capacitive Sensing, Machine Learning-based Grasp Interaction)
- Conduct research on capacitive sensing for touch and grasp detection.
- Develop algorithms to process raw capacitive images into rich input parameters.
- Design and prototype novel interaction techniques for mobile and multitouch devices.
- Evaluate the usability and performance of touch and grasp-based interactions.
- Publish research findings in leading HCI and related academic venues.
- Collaborate with team members and external partners on interdisciplinary projects.
- Supervise or mentor undergraduate or master’s students on related topics.
- Present research at international conferences and workshops.
- Contribute to the lab’s collaborative and innovative research environment.
Deadline : Open until filled
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(12) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD student in Human-Computer Interaction: AI-based Input Detection & Text Entry Decoding
- Conduct research on sensor-based input detection and interaction in Mixed Reality.
- Develop algorithms for text entry using character-level and word-level language models.
- Design and implement systems leveraging IMU, EMG, and EOG sensor data.
- Evaluate the usability and performance of input detection methods.
- Publish research findings in top-tier HCI and related academic venues.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team on innovative HCI projects.
- Supervise or mentor undergraduate or master’s students on related topics.
- Present research at international conferences and workshops.
- Contribute to lab activities and brainstorming sessions.
- Stay updated with advancements in HCI, machine learning, and sensor systems.
Deadline : Open until filled
(13) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: Doctoral student in ecosystem water vapor exchange
The doctoral project will focus on the effect of climate and management on evapotranspiration in grasslands and croplands. The doctoral student will work on:
- the partitioning and drivers of evapotranspiration from plot to ecosystem scale
- the effect of drought on evapotranspiration and water use efficiency
- the assessment of evapotranspiration under future climate
The main tasks of the doctoral student include:
- fieldwork and plant ecophysiological measurements
- eddy covariance data analyses and processing
- maintenance of a grassland flux measurement station in Switzerland
The full-time position is funded for 4 years. Salary and social benefits are provided according to ETH Zurich rules.
Deadline : Open until filled
(14) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Position: Modelling materials with local lattice instabilities
You will develop computational methods to analyze crystallographic data and model electronic structures in complex materials. The work involves creating code for processing diffuse scattering data, performing density functional theory (DFT) calculations, and developing coarse-grained models for large-scale atomic simulations.
Deadline : Open until filled
(15) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD position –Probing biomolecular interactions with plasmonic sensing
The research focuses on probing biomolecular interactions with plasmonic sensing. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) are strong photon-induced collective hot-electron coupling effects, which can create intense and sensitive electromagnetic near-field associated with noble metal nanostructures. SPR and LSPR have been demonstrated as powerful tools to study nanoscale bimolecular interactions and sensitive biosensing. Our group has been engaged in plasmonic biosensing as for real-time and label-free biomolecular interaction analysis, such as airborne virus detection, local aggregation of proteins and nucleic acids, etc.
Deadline : Open until filled
(16) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Position in Identifying Small Molecule Inhibitors of Alzheimer’s Disease Through a Combination of Microfluidics and Fluorescence Imaging
The aim of this project is to develop microfluidic platforms able to identify small molecule inhibitors that target AD. Specifically, a combination of microfluidics, time-resolved and super -resolution fluorescence imaging, and high-throughput screening will be used to accelerate the discovery of novel therapeutics under conditions that mimic the physiological environment of cell membranes.
Deadline : Open until filled
(17) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD position in Sustainable Robotics
- Design and synthesis of functional sustainable soft materials
- Design and fabrication of devices and robots
- Circular life cycle study
This is a full-time position that starts as soon as possible. Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Deadline : Open until filled
(18) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Student in Control & Dynamical Systems
This project investigates the mathematical, physical, technical, and organizational conditions necessary to enable higher levels of automation in railway operations. A key challenge lies in the variability and lack of precise train dynamics data, particularly for freight trains with varying lengths, weights, and wagon conditions, often carrying partially unknown loads. This uncertainty results in conservative estimates of braking rates and dynamic performance, reducing efficiency both at the individual train level and across the network, and limiting the potential benefits of automation.
To address this, the project leverages advanced data sources (e.g., high-resolution position sensors, accelerometers, force and power sensors) to develop an accurate, stochastic multibody simulation model. This model dynamically updates key parameters to predict effective braking and acceleration capabilities, complementing existing organizational and safety practices.
Additionally, the project proposes a novel control regime to optimize train trajectories, allowing faster speeds, later braking, and closer spacing, while maintaining safety margins based on model precision. Performance outcomes will be benchmarked against human-operated systems through simulations and real-world tests.
Deadline : Open until filled
(19) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Position at the Chair of Strategic Management and Innovation (SMI) at ETH Zurich
The selected PhD candidate will embark on a research project culminating in a dissertation of at least three high-quality papers intended for top-tier journals. Co-supervision will be provided by Prof. Georg von Krogh and a team of senior researchers at SMI. Expected starting time: June 2025.
Deadline : Open until filled
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(20) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: 4yr PhD – Forest Management and Economics
We’re looking for enthusiastic individuals from diverse academic backgrounds who are excited about exploring forest management and forest ecosystem services (FES) through an interdisciplinary lens. Don’t worry if you don’t have all the experience yet—this position is about developing your skills, with access to exceptional training, resources, and mentorship along the way.
Deadline : Open until filled
(21) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Modeling and Simulation of Mass Cycling Dynamics for Sustainable Cities
The doctoral researcher is expected to conduct research in the following areas:
- Traffic modeling and Simulation
- Multimodality
- Adaptive infrastructure
- Traffic management and control
Deadline : Open until filled
(22) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Position in Climate Change Impacts on Hazards from Rock Glaciers
The PhD project will instrument rock glaciers, which are also prone to debris flows, with a novel moitoring system. The position therefore includes a significant amount of field work in the Swiss Alps. The collected data will enable to accurately quantify erosional events. The PhD student will use this data to study drivers of sediment supply events (e.g., meteorological data). Furthermore, data on past hazards will be collected and incorporated into the analysis. The gained knowledge will be used to develop a numerical model including key hydrologic and geomorphic processes, which will be forced with the latest climate change scenarios to study future hazards from rock glaciers.
Deadline : Open until filled
(23) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Student (m/f/d) in large-scale 3D-printing for architecture
You will lead the project’s work package around hardware and process development for HC3DP. Different nozzle designs and extrusion profiles can tremendously affect the printed result and are investigated as a parameter to precisely control a range of hollow core layered and even spatial extrusions. Furthermore, you will collaborate with the Ph.D. student of the CDL group and the postdocs, on closed-loop control systems with machine learning, and design for fabrication workflows.
In addition to conducting their research, Ph.D. students at ITA get the opportunity to teach the bachelor in architecture, offering master’s thesis to the MIBS and the MAS dfab students.
Deadline : Open until filled
(24) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD in Metal-assisted Chemical Etching for X-ray Gratings Microfabrication
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join our SNF-funded project, ABSOLUTE, under the guidance of our micro- and nanofabrication expert, Dr. Lucia Romano. As part of our multidisciplinary team of academic and industry researchers, you will have the chance to contribute to the ongoing development of this innovative technology.
Deadline : Open until filled
(25) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: Doctoral Position: Human Factors in Crisis for Informing AI-based Agents in Training Simulation
The Security, Privacy and Society Group performs research at the intersection of humans and technology, especially focusing on human-computer interaction and the human aspects of IT security, privacy, and safety. Exemplary research projects include phishing detection support for users, designing expert-AI collaboration for cybersecurity tasks, analysing inferential privacy, and exploring interrelations between safety and cybersecurity in critical infrastructures.
As a member of the group, you will contribute to the group’s research activities, i.e., with a specifc focus on the project described above, and gradually build your research profile according to your interests and talents. You will work towards a doctoral degree and participate in the group’s teaching and other activities.
Deadline : Open until filled
(26) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD position Wood Materials Science – DC11: Electrically conductive bio-based materials – within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions – Doctoral Networks (MSCA-DN) RE-Fibre
The DCs will build on ground-breaking findings being generated at the RE-Fibre consortium, to enable the development of fully recyclable functional biobased composites with properties on par with fossil-based counterparts. They will gain competencies, not only in a breakthrough scientific field but also in interdisciplinary and interpersonal skills. Additionally, they will expand their network and gain experience through participating in secondments (research stays at a site of an academic or industrial partner). Finally, DCs will learn the best practices by developing online research and training tools, enabling them to work and collaborate across academic and industrial sectors. RE-Fibre training will contribute to DCs employability as future leaders, while supporting the green transition and a sustainable circular economy in Europe.
Deadline : Open until filled
(27) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD position Wood Materials Science – DC10: High-strength cellulose composites with enhanced flame retardency and water repellency- within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions – Doctoral Networks (MSCA-DN) RE-Fibre
The DCs will build on ground-breaking findings being generated at the RE-Fibre consortium, to enable the development of fully recyclable functional biobased composites with properties on par with fossil-based counterparts. They will gain competencies, not only in a breakthrough scientific field but also in interdisciplinary and interpersonal skills. Additionally, they will expand their network and gain experience through participating in secondments (research stays at a site of an academic or industrial partner). Finally, DCs will learn the best practices by developing online research and training tools, enabling them to work and collaborate across academic and industrial sectors. RE-Fibre training will contribute to DCs employability as future leaders, while supporting the green transition and a sustainable circular economy in Europe.
Deadline : Open until filled
(28) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Positions in Stimuli-Responsive Organometallic Chemistry
We are looking for someone with a M.Sc. degree or equivalent in chemistry or related area and a background in synthetic chemistry. Exceptional candidates holding B.Sc. degrees will also be considered. Any previous experience in air- and moisture-free manipulations (ie. Schlenk technique, glovebox operations) and electrochemistry are an advantage but not essential.
Above all, we are seeking highly motivated and enthusiastic scientists who thrive in collaborative working environments, enjoy taking on challenges, learning new skills, critical thinking and problem solving. Fluent communication skills in English (oral and written) are essential, as is a willingness to work as part of a highly interactive, international, and diverse team.
Deadline : Open until filled
(29) PhD Degree – Fully Funded
PhD position summary/title: PhD Student Position in Quantitative Online Discourse Research
We are looking for a PhD student to join our ongoing research program on online discourse and how to improve it.
The research program aims to understand online discourse, with a particular focus on the DACH region, and design and implement interventions to improve discourse and reduce hate speech. We work together with online newspapers and use social media data. Our research employs advanced statistical methods for causal inference and we develop state-of-the-art machine learning classifiers for both harmful and high-quality speech. You will contribute your data science expertise to our ongoing projects, and have the opportunity to develop your own research projects in keeping with our wider research agenda. You will be able to work with exclusive datasets of online comments and collaborate with external partners on real-world problems and test the effectiveness of interventions in the field.
The position is located in the team of Dominik Hangartner at ETH Zurich, but you will also have the opportunity to work with an array of affiliated faculty as well as with the Public Discourse Foundation. In addition to the research, you will have small administrative and teaching responsibilities amounting to 10% of your time.
Deadline : Open until filled
About ETH Zurich, Switzerland- Official Website
ETH Zürich is a public research university in the city of Zürich, Switzerland. Founded by the Swiss Federal Government in 1854 with the stated mission to educate engineers and scientists, the school focuses exclusively on science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Like its sister institution EPFL, it is part of the Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology Domain, part of the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research.
In the 2021 edition of QS World University Rankings, ETH Zurich was ranked 6th in the world, placing it as the second-best European university after the University of Oxford. In the 2020 QS World University Rankings by subject, it ranked 4th in the world for engineering and technology (2nd in Europe) and 1st for earth & marine science. Also, ETH was rated 8th in the world in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings of 2020.
The university is an attractive destination for international students thanks to low tuition fees of 809 CHF per semester, PhD and graduate salaries that are amongst the world’s highest, and a world-class reputation in academia and industry. There are currently 22,200 students from over 120 countries, of which 4,180 are pursuing doctoral degrees.
As of November 2019, 21 Nobel laureates, 2 Fields Medalists, 2 Pritzker Prize winners, and 1 Turing Award winner have been affiliated with the Institute, including Albert Einstein. Other notable alumni include John von Neumann and Santiago Calatrava. It is a founding member of the IDEA League and the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU) and a member of the CESAER network.
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