Doctoral Position in Machine Learning for Engineering Design

The Laboratory for Intelligence in Design Engineering and Learning (IDEAL) in the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering invites applications for one to two doctoral (Ph.D.) positions in the area of Machine Learning for Engineering Design under the guidance of Prof. Mark Fuge, Chair of Artificial Intelligence in Engineering Design. The laboratory focuses on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Engineering Design problems across domains such as healthcare, power generation, aerospace, and robotics. This is a general search prioritizing scientific excellence and fit to the laboratory over specific project topics.

• Conduct individual or collaborative research, including writing publications and contributing to code bases.
• Collaborate with partners from industry, academia, and national labs to translate real-world needs into scientific or technical questions, where relevant.
• Learn new skills in specialized graduate areas through courses, educational offerings, or self-learning.
• Assist with the teaching mission of the laboratory, including working with Masters and/or Bachelors thesis students and providing course assistance as needed.
• Support various shared laboratory administrative tasks as part of the team.

• Applicants from diverse educational backgrounds such as engineering, mathematics, computer science, physics, or other degrees are welcome.
• Interest or expertise in areas such as Machine Learning, Optimization, Simulation, or Robotics is typical among lab members.
• A strong publication record in competitive journals or Computer Science conference venues is a plus, but not required, especially for those with practical experience or non-traditional career paths.
• Experience with High-Performance Computing (HPC) environments or Software Engineering best practices is a plus, but not required.
• Strong English language skills and the ability to work successfully and collaboratively on diverse, multinational teams are expected.
• Candidates are encouraged to apply even if they do not meet every point listed, especially if they have not had access to certain development opportunities.

• World-class research infrastructure and excellent working conditions guided by a supportive shared work culture.
• Opportunities to work with a diverse, motivated, and multicultural team in a creative research environment.
• A rich intellectual environment within the lab and university, including top scholars from across the globe.
• Support for personalized professional development and mentoring, with the ability to build a strong support network for your future career.
• Be part of a laboratory with a strong track record of placing employees into competitive research positions, professorships, and industrial R&D.

ETH Zurich values diversity, sustainability, and an inclusive culture. The university promotes equality of opportunity, respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students, and is committed to a climate-neutral future.

The IDEAL laboratory offers a supportive, collaborative, and multicultural team environment, with opportunities for interaction with top scholars and partners from industry, academia, and national labs.