The Soft Robotics Lab seeks a highly motivated laboratory technician to support the group’s research in tissue engineering and robotics. The technician will work in the role of lab manager, with the main responsibility of guaranteeing the presence of a functional, active workflow for the researchers. This role requires the Lab Technician to manage our different laboratories (bio lab, chemical lab, fabrication lab, and clean room) and ensure the operation of scientific and engineering instruments. The technician will support the lab's research within well-funded projects in an international team of highly motivated researchers. Upon agreement and funding availability, this role could become a fulltime position in the future.

The Soft Robotics Lab, led by Prof. Robert Katzschmann, aims to research soft materials and technologies to realize robots. Our interdisciplinary research group combines the fabrication of synthetic materials, computational sciences, mechanical and electrical engineering, and biology with a focus on tissue engineering. The Soft Robotics Lab is located in the CLA Building of the Department of Mechanical and Processes Engineering within the ETH Zentrum campus in Zurich.

The main responsibilities include:

• Ordering and cataloging of consumables/reagents
• Maintenance and repair of instruments (3D printers, incubators, autoclave, bio hoods, computers, robotic arms, etc.)
• Support the lab digital infrastructure (website, social media, data servers, file storage systems)
• General support for the group’s ongoing research projects

To successfully carry out these diverse tasks, we expect the candidate to have completed vocational training as an chemical technician, biological technician, electronics technician, polymechanic, physics laboratory technician, or similar adequate training in applied engineering. Also a bachelor of science degree in life sciences or engineering are suitable. We also expect the following skills:   

• Excellent organizational skills
• Outstanding ability to document processes and keep them up-to-date
• Familiar with inventory and data storage systems 
• Willing to undertake education for laboratory safety
• First point of contact to handle urgent matters regarding lab equipment
• Problem-solving skills and hands-on abilities to deal with hardware
• A team player with excellent communication skills
• Basic programming skills

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity, and attractive offers and benefits. 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 learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

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 online application with the following documents:

• CV
• Motivation letter
• Three reference contacts, including their direct phone numbers

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the SRL can be found on our website. Application is to be addressed to Prof. Dr. Robert Katzschmann and submitted here in the job portal. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Miriam Filippi, miriam.filippi@srl.ethz.ch.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.