Group Lead Advanced Mechatronic Systems

Project background

The Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering (D‑ITET) at ETH Zürich is renowned for its world-class research and teaching ranging from integrated circuits to computer networks, from wireless communications to signal processing, and from control theory to electric energy. It offers a highly interdisciplinary research environment with strong expertise in power electronic components and converters, electric drives, electrical insulation, and system modeling.

The research of the Advanced Mechatronic Systems (AMS) group focuses on integrated mechatronic systems, including electromagnetic actuators, sensing, electrical machines, control, system-level integration, and related areas.

Job description

The AMS Group Lead is responsible for developing and leading an independent research activity in advanced mechatronic systems within D‑ITET. The role focuses on strengthening competencies in mechatronics, electromagnetic actuators, electrical machines, sensing, and system-level integration, complementing the department's strong expertise in power electronics.

In this role, you will:

• Develop and execute a research agenda focused on integrated mechatronic systems, electromagnetic actuators and electric motors
• Contribute to teaching in form of lectures and projects, supervision of student theses, and departmental initiatives
• Acquire and manage research funding across public and industrial sources
• Recruit and supervise PhD students and researchers, building a sustainable group structure

The role includes responsibility for initiating and developing research activities, with the scope of leadership responsibilities increasing according to the candidate’s level of seniority. We are looking for a candidate who:

• Takes responsibility for developing research and teaching activities at different levels of maturity and shows strong initiative and a self-driven approach to shaping research directions and collaborations
• Demonstrates leadership potential, including the ability to guide and support junior researchers
• Works collaboratively across disciplines (e.g., systems, control, electronics, mechanics)
• Communicates clearly in academic and industrial environment

Profile

The position is open to candidates at different levels of seniority, ranging from advanced postdoctoral researchers to experienced professionals from academia or industry.

You should have:

• A PhD in electrical or mechanical engineering with a focus on mechatronics or a closely related field
• Strong background in mechatronic systems, electromagnetic actuators, sensing, electrical machines, control of drive systems, or related areas
• Demonstrated ability or strong potential for developing independent research directions
• Track record or clear potential for funding acquisition and project execution
• Experience in teaching on university level and in mentoring students or junior researchers is beneficial
• Experience, or a strong interest in, leading people, fostering collaboration, and enabling professional and personal growth

We offer

ETH Zürich offers a stimulating international research environment with excellent infrastructure and strong academic and industrial connections.

The AMS Group Lead operates with a high degree of autonomy in defining research directions and building a project portfolio. The position is institutionally attached to D-ITET via an advisory board, which provides strategic guidance and oversight.

The position is initially offered for a fixed-term duration, with the opportunity of transitioning into a permanent position. The initial duration depends on the candidate’s level of maturity and performance. Strong interaction with internal and external partners is expected, with performance assessed through scientific output, funding success, and contribution to the department.

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.