The Sensing, Interaction & Perception Lab is looking for a PhD student in embedded systems. Suitable applicants have built their own embedded systems before (custom PCB + firmware, MCU + sensor integration, ideally using nRF chips). Optional but encouraged is some experience with UWB (communication protocol, distance estimation) and  basic feedback control/robotics (Kalman filters, state estimation).

To learn more about our research, check out our website.

The project focuses on developing cutting-edge embedded systems that integrate UWB and motion sensors for high-accuracy ranging, tracking, and communication. You will work on custom PCBs, firmware development, and the seamless connection of MCUs with various sensors. You will also develop learning-based pipelines for state, position, and motion estimation.

The project will contribute to advancements in localization and robotics applications.

Background will be our previous work on pose estimation and location tracking.

• Design, develop, and test embedded systems hardware (PCBs) and firmware.
• Integrate MCUs with sensors, ensuring reliable communication and data handling.
• Develop UWB-based communication and ranging algorithms.
• Contribute to system-level performance optimization and experimental validation.
• Implement basic feedback control for robotics tasks.

Your background should be in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or Robotics.

Candidates should also have:

• Proven experience designing custom PCBs and developing firmware.
• Familiarity with MCUs (e.g., nRF chips) and sensor integration.
• Ideally: hands-on experience with UWB technology (platforms, protocols, signals).
• Strong problem-solving and technical debugging skills.
• Optional: experience in state estimation and filters.

We offer an exciting environment to study and work in.

For more information, check out

• our projects in the Sensing, Interaction & Perception Lab
• the SIPLAB team
• Christian Holz (PI)

ETH has several internationally recognized research groups dedicated to hardware prototyping, electrical engineering, robotics, signal processing, and machine learning. We collaborate with several of them as well as institutions and companies in Switzerland and abroad.

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.

Application documents to be submitted:

• a brief description of your past projects that are most relevant to this position
• your CV
• university score records (for undergrad and master's)
• contact details of at least two academic referees

Note: We exclusively accept applications submitted through the application portal. Applications via email will not be considered.

Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis. This listing will be deactivated when the position has been filled.

In the case of further questions, please email siplab-recruiting@inf.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.