Postdoc position in soft optical fiber-based artificial muscle for biomedical applications

ETH Zurich seeks a postdoc to develop light-controlled soft optical fiber actuators for biomedical applications, including minimally invasive surgical tools and integrated bioelectronic systems. The role involves design, fabrication, and testing of devices with real-world demonstration goals.

This postdoc role focuses on creating biocompatible soft actuators driven by light, aiming to match the performance of established soft robotic systems. The work will support advanced robotic functions such as minimally invasive surgical tools and integrate bioelectronic sensing for closed-loop diagnostic and therapeutic applications, with real-world testing through collaborations.

Responsibilities

• Design and fabricate soft optical fibers with densely integrated actuators.
• Create multiplexing techniques to enable individual control of each actuator.
• Supervise master’s and bachelor’s level students in research projects.
• Serve as a teaching assistant for the robotic materials course.

Requirements

• A PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field from a top-tier university.
• Proven research experience in areas such as bioelectronics, soft robotics, flexible electronics, fiber-based devices, functional materials, wearable systems, or biomedical devices.
• Practical experience in device design, prototyping, experimental testing, and achieving TRL 3-5 demonstrations.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with biomedical soft materials, textile or fiber processing techniques, microfabrication, or soft actuator technologies is advantageous.

What the company offers

• A supportive research environment with regular training and guidance from the principal investigator.
• A competitive salary in line with ETH standards, fully funded, full-time, and fixed-term.
• An interdisciplinary, international, and diverse research group that fosters collaboration and innovation.
• Strong partnerships with academic, industrial, and clinical institutions in materials science, robotics, and healthcare.

About the company

ETH Zurich is a globally recognized university specializing in science and technology, known for its high-quality education, pioneering research, and direct impact on society. It attracts over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, fostering independent thinking and excellence in a dynamic, international environment.

• Commitment to excellence in education and research.
• Support for independent thinking and innovation.
• Diverse, international, and collaborative research environment.
• Focus on translating scientific advances into real-world solutions for global challenges.