PhD student in Digital Fabrication and Computational Optimization

We will develop novel methods to generate 3D models for fabrication via 2D laser cutting, foldable paper, 3D printing, and a combination of them in conjunction with novel optimization-based computational methods for better fabrication outcomes. The research will be related to the areas of 3D modeling, computer graphics, digital fabrication, geometric processing, and geometry generation.

At the Sensing, Interaction & Perception Lab (Prof. Christian Holz), we are looking to recruit a PhD student with an interest in conducting cutting-edge research, with a solid motivation to work on challenging topics, and a strong desire to learn.

Recent trends in digital fabrication and 3D modeling focus on enhancing techniques like 2D laser cutting, foldable paper engineering, and 3D printing. This project will explore the integration of these fabrication methods with advanced optimization algorithms to develop innovative computational approaches. By leveraging the latest advancements in each area, we aim to create more efficient and effective processes for generating complex geometries, pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in digital fabrication and geometric processing through computational optimization.

During your PhD studies and research, you will

• conduct research on 2D laser cutting, 3D developable surfaces, and 3D printing by developing novel computational optimization algorithms.
• develop novel computational methods for 3D modeling and geometric processing.
• fabricate, design, iterate on 2D and 3D models and create physical prototypes (a lot).
• design experiments to test and validate the new fabrication techniques.
• collaborate with team members at the Sensing, Interaction & Perception Lab and others at ETH Zürich.
• present research findings at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals or conferences.
• assist in supervising undergraduate and master's students on related projects.
• stay updated on the latest advancements in digital fabrication and 3D modeling.

You should have a background in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or Mechanical Engineering.

• an excellent master's degree (M.Sc., M.Eng. or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, or closely related
• written and spoken fluency in English
• demonstrated experience in digital fabrication
• experience implementing research prototypes
• strong interpersonal and communication skills
• recommended: demonstrated international mobility through exchanges, internships, or visits at other research institutions

Prior experience in conducting research is a plus including prior publications.

We offer an exciting and stimulating environment to study and work in. In the SIPLAB at ETH Zürich, we are an international and cross-disciplinary research group working across computational interaction, physical computing, applied computer vision, wearable sensing, and mobile health. We bring together skills and experience from Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering. We are part of the Department of Computer Science and affiliated with the Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering and collaborate with several other research groups, which are internationally recognized in computer graphics, fabrication, sensing systems, and machine learning. We also collaborate with several other institutions and companies in Switzerland and abroad. We publish our research at the top venues in technical Human-Computer Interaction, Ubiquitous Computing, Graphics, and Computer Vision.

For an overview of our projects, learn more about:

• TEAM SIPLAB
• Christian Holz
• More details on joining us