Doctoral Position in Generative AI-Based, Computational Design Methods for Engineering Design

The Engineering Design and Computing Laboratory has a fully-funded doctoral position to work on cutting-edge research combining Large Language Models (LLMs) with formal design grammars for generative engineering design.

The starting date is in February 2027 and latest in September 2027. Applications are considered on a rolling basis until the closing date of November 01, 2026.

Job description

• Investigate new approaches in generative AI for engineering design
• Explore how LLMs can act as collaborative partners for human designers
• Use LLMs to Represent engineering designs, Reason about design solutions, Generate new design solutions, Explore different solution spaces
• Investigate applications in Consumer products, Manufacturing, Structures
• Provide teaching assistance in Engineering design, Product development, CAD

Profile

• Creative and curious, with an interdisciplinary mindset
• Interested in applied AI for engineering design
• Interested in computational design methods
• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Motivated to conduct internationally leading research
• Strong programming skills in Python
• English is the main working language
• German is an advantage but not required
• Experience with computational design methods is an advantage
• Experience with machine learning is an advantage
• Experience with Large Language Models (LLMs) is an advantage
• Excellent applicants with a strong interest in research and innovation are encouraged to apply

We offer

• Fully funded doctoral position with a competitive salary
• Only a small tuition fee is required at ETH
• Join a highly motivated, international team at one of Europe’s leading universities
• Work in an engaging and ambitious research environment
• Opportunities to collaborate with students, other research labs, industrial partners
• Opportunity to shape the lab’s research direction with your own ideas
• Contribute to and strengthen the lab’s international research profile

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 online application with the following documents:

• CV
• university transcripts for both the Bachelor and Master degree
• two references that can be contacted for reference letters
• Scientific publications are an advantage
• a maximum of three should also be included when available

Further information about Engineering Design and Computing Laboratory can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to info-edac@mavt.ethz.ch (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.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.