Postdoc and PhD positions in optically multiplexed soft robotic actuators

Overview

The Robotic Materials group is looking for two postdocs and one PhD for the project funded by ERC Starting Grant: "Distributed Addressable Robotic Material via Wavelength-Division-Multiplexing (Colorful Act)". Colorful Act aims to establish the building blocks of physical intelligence parallel to nodes and connections to artificial intelligence. We will develop distributed and addressable robotic actuating materials that demonstrate multifunctionality through the broad bandwidth of light.

The Robotic Materials group headed by Prof. Hedan Bai at the Department of Materials was established in October 2023. We are an international and interdisciplinary team of material scientists, roboticists, engineers and chemists with a passion for futuristic robotics. We take a bottom-up approach to robotics and develop soft materials and devices that would enable unusual form and unconventional functions for broader robotic applications.

Track 1:
Fiber-based soft optical actuator

• Design and fabrication of high-performance soft optical actuator
• Design, modeling, and scalable manufacturing of miniature, highly integrated fiber actuator
• Demonstration of multifunctional soft robotic systems

Track 2:
Soft optical actuator and network

• Design and fabrication of high-performance soft optical actuator
• Design, modeling, and fabrication of soft optical network for light multiplexing
• System-level demonstrations where distributed actuation enables new robotic functions

Track 3:
Biomedical soft robot with light

• Design and synthesis of biocompatible soft materials for high-performance optical actuation
• Design and fabrication of minimally invasive soft robotic devices (surgical tools/implants)
• Proof-of-concept demonstrations in medical robotics applications

All tracks:

• Supervise master/bachelor students
• Teaching assistant for the robotic materials class

Must haves for postdocs (all tracks):

• PhD degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field from a top university
• Strong experimental background with documented achievements (publications, patents, prototypes, competitions) in soft actuators, devices, or robotic materials
• Ability to independently lead research projects and mentor junior researchers
• Strong communication skills to collaborate across disciplines

Must haves for PhD (all tracks):

• A master’s degree and outstanding academic record from a top university in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• Demonstrated research experience in soft actuators, optics, materials design, or biomedical robotics
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a passion for interdisciplinary research

Preferred expertise:

Track 1: Advanced experience in fiber manufacturing or functional fiber integration; microfabrication.

Track 2: Background in optics and experience with soft optical devices; microfabrication.

Track 3: Skills in polymer/biomaterial synthesis and characterization for robotic applications.

• 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

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.

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

• A cover letter indicating which track you are applying for (Track 1/2/3, or a combination)
• CV
• Publication list with a few sentences highlighting representative works
• Contact details of two referees

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled. The preferred start date is December 1st, 2025. Applications before October 15th, 2025 will be fully considered. Further information should be directed to Prof. Hedan Bai z.ch. All applications should be submitted through this portal, and applications through emails will not be considered.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Located in the heart of Europe, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.