Projects & Theses
Below you find a collection of BSc and MSc projects and theses that can be carried out within the MaP community.
Hand Gesture Recognition Using High-Density Surface Electromyography (HD-sEMG)
The project aims to develop machine learning models for real-time hand gesture recognition using high-density surface electromyography (HD-sEMG) signals. This research focuses on improving neuroprosthetic control and rehabilitation by accurately decoding hand movements from HD-sEMG data.
Keywords
HD-sEMG, neuroprosthetics, biosignal monitoring, machine learning, hand gesture recognition, rehabilitation
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ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-07
Organization Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Lab
Hosts Qi Shuaixin
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Gait and Posture Analysis Using Multimodal Data from Smart Walkers
The project aims to develop machine learning models to analyze gait and posture using multimodal data collected from participants using a robotic walker equipped with multiple cameras and inertial sensors. This research focuses on detecting abnormalities in gait patterns and postural control, contributing to the development of rehabilitation and assistive technologies.
Keywords
gait analysis, posture monitoring, smart walker, motion capture, biomechanics, sensor fusion, rehabilitation, inertial sensors
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ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-07
Organization Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Lab
Hosts Qi Shuaixin
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Automated calibration of body-scale contact sensors
Goal: Create a repeatable, precise, and high-throughput robotic experimental setup for characterizing a custom contact sensor. This project is part of a broader effort to enable robots to better perceive whole-body contact and execute dynamic, contact-rich tasks.
Keywords
Robotics, Tactile Sensing, Machine Learning, Automated Calibration, RL, AI, Mechanical Engineering, Manipulation
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Semester Project
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Published since: 2026-05-07 , Earliest start: 2026-05-11 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Applications limited to ETH Zurich
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Baines Robert
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Silver Nanoparticle-Based Platforms for Thermal Modulation and Glucose Sensing in Engineered Muscle Tissues
This project aims to develop silver nanoparticle-based systems as multifunctional, responsive materials for engineered skeletal muscle tissues. The work will explore their use in localized thermal modulation of cellular activity and as embedded sensors for glucose monitoring within tissue constructs. By integrating nanomaterials with biofabricated muscle systems, the project seeks to create advanced platforms for controlled stimulation and real-time metabolic sensing.
Keywords
silver nanoparticles, nanomaterials, thermal modulation, glucose sensing, skeletal muscle tissue, biofabrication, biosensors, nanomedicine, tissue engineering, bio-hybrid systems.
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Semester Project , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-06 , Earliest start: 2026-05-06 , Latest end: 2026-10-31
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Filippi Miriam
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Biology
Programmable Colloidal Crystal Engineering of Magnetoelectric Nanoparticles via DNA Origami
MENPs are an emerging class of multifunctional nanomaterials that exhibit coupled magnetic and electric properties. In this project, MENPs will be synthesized and functionalized with DNA strands to act as programmable building for colloidal crystal assembly. This approach adapts recent advances in DNA-mediated nanoparticle self-assembly, replacing metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with MENPs to explore new functionalities. Their structural organization will be characterized, and their functional behavior will be investigated. Particular attention will be given to how the intrinsic magnetoelectric properties of MENPs influence collective properties in the assembled state. The project aims to provide insight into the relationship between nanoparticle design, assembly architecture, and emergent material properties, potentially enabling applications in catalysis, sensing, and responsive materials.
Keywords
Magnetoelectric Nanoparticles, Cobalt Ferrite, Barium Titanate,Surface engineering, DNA-programmed colloidal crystals
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-05-06 , Earliest start: 2026-06-01 , Latest end: 2027-05-01
Organization Multiscale Robotics Lab
Hosts Accursi Martina
Topics Engineering and Technology
Encasing Bio-actuators for Real-World Usability of Bio-hybrid Robots
This project aims to develop 3D muscle bioactuators integrated with smart protective encasing systems for operation beyond standard in vitro conditions. Building on existing platforms for thermal regulation and nutrient supply, the project will focus on designing responsive encapsulation strategies capable of adapting to environmental cues, such as pH variations, to regulate exchange with the surroundings. These systems will enable more robust, functional bioactuators for applications in bio-hybrid robotics and translational bioengineering.
Keywords
skeletal muscle, bioactuators, bio-hybrid robotics, stimuli-responsive biomaterials, encapsulation systems, chitosan, pH-responsive materials, biofabrication, tissue engineering
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Semester Project , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-06 , Earliest start: 2026-05-06 , Latest end: 2026-10-31
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Filippi Miriam
Topics Engineering and Technology , Biology
The Shape of Growth: Simulating Stress and Form in Living Matter
Are you interested in exploring the exciting intersection of solid mechanics, transport phenomena, and soft matter physics? In this project, you will model how internal stresses and material patterns emerge when a soft, living-like material grows while being fed by a diffusing nutrient. You will build a simple but powerful 2D multiphysics model—from the physics all the way to the simulation—using modern differentiable tools. You’ll treat growth as an anisotropic eigenstrain driven by a nutrient field around a circular “biofilm-like” inclusion. By coupling diffusion with mechanical constraint, you will discover how even modest, non-uniform growth can generate complex stress fields, directional patterns, and the first signs of damage. This hands-on project offers an accessible introduction to multiphysics modeling while revealing how growth and mechanics compete to shape living and soft materials.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Biology , Physics
Mix and match: hybrid materials for tunable mechanical response
Architected materials leverage their topology to deliver customized properties unattainable with monolithic materials. Their global mechanical behavior, including stiffness, strength, and failure, depends on both the topology and the properties of the constituent material. This project investigates the fracture and deformation behavior of polymer, fiber composites, and hybrid architected materials, using additive manufacturing and mechanical testing. The goal is to understand the influence of the reinforcement and local material stretchability on the network response and whether different phases could produce unconventional mechanical responses, such as enhanced toughness, delayed failure, or tunable energy dissipation. The project is multi-faceted, combining additive manufacturing, mechanical testing, and data analysis, and can be adapted to the expertise and interests of the student.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Physics
From Pixels to Models: Bridging Optical Measurements and Fi nite Element Simulations of Lattice Failure
Architected materials derive unique mechanical properties from their engineered internal geometry. However, understanding how these materials fail is challenging because their failure is a complex, multiscale process, yet essential for designing materials with targeted failure behavior. Optical techniques such as digital image correlation (DIC) offer a promising way to link the deformation of individual beams within a lattice to the overall failure of the structure. The goal of this project is to evaluate whether finite element simulations can accurately reproduce the deformations measured by DIC and whether the numerically predicted failure strains result in a crack path consistent with experimental observations. Depending on the student’s interests, the project can focus solely on numerical simulations or include experimental testing of 3D-printed lattice specimens combined with optical imaging.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Physics
Fundamental understanding of the mechanics of fresh cement paste
The properties of fresh cement paste have become a big research topic since the advent of concrete 3D printing a decade ago. While we are able to print large-scale structures, we surprisingly lack fundamental understanding of the processes governing fresh cement paste stiffening. This is because when cement paste is in its fresh state, there are complex physical and chemical reactions taking place simultaneously. A recent experimental protocol coupled measurements of chemical reactions to the stiffening of the paste, allowing to gain deep fundamental understanding of the origins of fresh cement paste stiffening (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0008884624002461, https://ceramics.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jace.70271). The idea of the present project isto apply the same state-of-the-art protocol to “clean” systems (tricalcium silicate paste rather than cement paste), which will allow to settle current debates in the cement community.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Architecture, Urban Environment and Building , Physics
Investigation and optimization of the experimental setup of rammed earth test specimens
The influence of the experimental setup of rammed earth specimens on their compressive strength is poorly understood. The common technique to prepare rammed earth samples for compression tests is to float their surfaces with a thin gypsum layer. However, to which extend is this method affecting the clamping of the sample and therefore the compressive strength? Can a uniaxial stress state be guaranteed? The idea of this project work is to (1) conduct research about the experimental setup for cubic samples and wall elements used in masonry, serving as a comparison to rammed earth; (2) Produce rammed earth samples and perform compression tests applying different test setups; (3) Propose more precise and time-efficient methods to float rammed earth samples.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Earth Sciences , Architecture, Urban Environment and Building , Physics
Contact mechanics of lattices with engineered surfaces
Architected lattice materials offer vast opportunities for tailoring mechanical response through geometry. While most studies emphasize bulk behavior, the mechanics of contact of architected lattices with engineered surface topographies remain largely unexplored. This project investigates how variations in surface profile geometries influence frictionless contact behavior. How do changes in topography shape affect the evolution of real contact area, pressure distribution, and load-displacement response? Can these effects be systematically captured through numerical simulations? The student will first generate lattice geometries with controlled surface descriptions and then simulate their contact with rigid surfaces to reveal the underlying mechanisms governing their macroscopic response.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Physics
Time Changes Everything, Including the Fracture of Soft Materials
Soft materials are fascinatingly stretchable and resistant — just think about your skin, muscles, and brain, or other artificial materials like the rubber band in a slingshot and the hydrogels used for drug delivery. Why are they able to undergo such extreme deformations? What exactly happens when they finally break? If you hold soft materials under a constant load or in a stretched position, or apply force at varying rates, their mechanical response changes over time—a property known as viscoelasticity. You may have heard of creep (a slow, continuous deformation under load), typically observed in materials like concrete. Now, imagine this process happening faster, and in a highly stretched material like a rubber band. How do these viscoelastic phenomena influence the fracture mechanism? In this project, you will learn about vis- coelasticity, soft materials, perform advanced FEM simulations using ETH supercomputers, and analyze your results to understand this process from a fundamental level.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Physics
An Atomistic Understanding of Cracks in Soft Materials
Soft materials are fascinatingly stretchable and resistant — just think about your skin, muscles, and brain, or other artificial materials like the rubber band in a slingshot and the hydrogels used for drug delivery. Why are they able to undergo such extreme deformations? What exactly happens when they finally break? At the atomistic scale, soft materials are far from smooth. They are chaotic, tangled webs of polymer chains joined by cross-links. Imagine a microscopic bowl of spaghetti where every strand is fighting against tension. We want to study these soft networks to get insights into their local behavior and understand precisely how these microscopic events lead to macroscopic fracture. Do you want to uncover the secrets behind the toughness of soft networks? In this project, you will learn about soft materials, perform advanced atomistic simulations using ETH supercomputers and analyze your results to understand the physics of the problem from a fundamental level.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Physics
Cuffless blood pressure estimation through wearable sensors and AI
This project explores machine learning methods to estimate blood pressure from wearable photoplethysmography signals, progressing from single-site public datasets to multi-site measurements to enhance accuracy through spatial cardiovascular dynamics.
Keywords
blood pressure assessment, biomedical signal analysis, data science, medical technologies, and digital health
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Semester Project , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-05-18 , Latest end: 2027-02-28
Organization Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Lab
Hosts Otesteanu Corin, Dr , Dominguez Federico
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences
The Great Encyclopedia of Cracks in Soft Materials
Soft materials are fascinatingly stretchable and resistant — just think about your skin, muscles, and brain, or other artificial materials like the rubber band in a slingshot and the hydrogels used for drug delivery. Why are they able to undergo such extreme deformations? What exactly happens when they finally break? Soft materials exhibit a broad range of complex, highly nonlinear behaviors that require specialized constitutive laws. Think of these as the advanced evolution of Hooke’s Law — equations capable of describing materials that stretch far beyond the linear limit. Consequently, unlike traditional materials such as glass or concrete, there is no ’textbook’ explaining how soft materials break. The aim of this project is to bridge this fundamental gap in our understanding. You will learn about soft materials, perform advanced FEM simulations using ETH supercomputers and analyze different nonlinear elastic constitutive laws generating valuable information that does not exist yet.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Physics
Numerical modeling of fracture
This project focuses on the numerical investigation and computational implementation of a phase-field formulation for brittle fracture in deformable solids. Phase-field models provide a diffuse-interface representation of crack evolution, enabling the simulation of crack initiation, propagation, branching, and coalescence without explicit crack tracking. The primary objective is to develop a robust and efficient finite element–based implementation of a coupled displacement–damage phase-field system derived from variational fracture mechanics. The governing equations, consisting of a mechanical equilibrium equation and a phase-field evolution equation, will be discretized using appropriate spatial and temporal schemes, with particular attention to numerical stability, mesh resolution requirements, and irreversibility constraints on damage evolution.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Physics
Testing the Limits of Seismic Inversions
How reliable are the methods used to infer fracture energy from real earthquakes? Fracture energy, the energy dissipated on a fault during rupture, plays a key role in determining earthquake dynamics and scaling laws. Yet, its actual value and scaling behavior remain controversial: some studies suggest it increases with earthquake magnitude, while others argue it is a material constant. In this project, you will evaluate one widely used approach that estimates fracture energy from kinematic inversions of seismic data. The idea is to test how well this method performs when the ground truth is known. You will simulate earthquake ruptures, extract the resulting displacement fields, and then downsample them to match the limited resolution of real seismic observations. By applying the same inversion techniques that seismologists use, you will assess how much information about fracture energy can truly be recovered and where the current methods fail. This project offers a unique opportunity to combine earthquake mechanics, numerical modeling, and data analysis to challenge a long-standing assumption in seismology and gain deep insight into the physics of fault rupture.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Earth Sciences , Physics
From Re-Cycling to Re-Use: Discovery of new Kirigami-inspired Magneto-Elastic materials
Can mechanical properties change after material synthesis? Engineering materials are commonly optimized to perform one task extremely well. But what when instead of recycling, one can change material properties on the fly? Then, without increasing the embodied energy by mechano-chemical processing, materials will be re-usable after minimal external work! In this project, we exploit Magneto-Elastica (magnets moving in their own field) and Kirigami (manufacturing by cutting). Specifically, we discover a design strategy to control material stability without remote control. You will use and build upon existing numerical models to explore the design space of magnets embedded in elastic bodies. You will make a real-world model by additive manufacturing. This proof-of-concept model will display at least two material responses that are reachable with minimal external manipulation.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Physics
MESHA Material: Magneto Elastic Self-Healing Architectured Material
Fabrication of architected materials through self-assembly of elementary units offers advantages over monolithic solids including recyclability and miniaturization. While self-assembly is prevalent in atomic synthesis, it is sparse at the macroscale. Recent success in the assembly of rigid lattices with sticky magnetic vertices showcase fracture toughening and self-healing. However, the discovery of lattice topologies of minimum embodied energy remains a challenge. The aim of this project is to numerically synthesize space-filling semi-, demi- and regular topologies for magneto-elastic lattices. You will use open-source, Monte Carlo-based, self-assembly code of rigid units with diverse shapes and magnetic orientations. Secondly, you will asses the mechanical stability of the most promising, synthesized magneto-elastic lattices. The magneto-elastic architectured material will combine high strength and fracture toughness, properties that are usually mutually exclusive.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Physics
Rolling, Gliding, Tumbling and Jumping: Transient Instabilities of Packaged Mail on Conveyor Belts
Self-Excited vibration and lift-off (loss of contact) present big concerns in engineering applications of conveyor belts. However, the friction law between the object and the conveyor belt one uses is simplified for tractability sake; the transient response of the belt is neglected. In this project, we investigate the initial conditions and system characteristics that lead to self-excited vibrations, lift-off and chaotic motion of the mass-on-moving-belt system. The goal is to couple a two-degrees-of-freedom harmonic oscillator and an existing boundary element method. You will implement a time-marching scheme, optimise and transfer existing code, to compare numerical results with existing theory. The outcomes of this project include the effect of initial conditions, changes in loading rate and characteristic material time on the mass-on-moving-belt response.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Engineering and Technology , Physics
Can an AI Rediscover the Laws of Physics? A Machine Learning Approach to Beam Theory
Are you interested in exploring the exciting intersection of solid mechanics and artificial intelligence? In this project, you will investigate whether a machine learning model can autonomously rediscover the fundamental principles of classical beam theory. You will use a Variational Autoencoder (VAE), a powerful generative model from the world of AI, to analyze high-fidelity Finite Element (FE) simulations of a cantilever beam. By generating data for both slender beams and thick beams, you will challenge the VAE to compress each beam’s complex deformation field into a simple, low-dimensional ”latent space.” The core of the project is to decode this space and test the hypothesis that the AI has learned the correct physical degrees of freedom—such as curvature, axial strain, and shear. This project is a unique hands-on introduction to the field of scientific machine learning. You will develop a deep intuition for how AI can be used not as a ”blackbox,” but as a powerful tool to generate physical hypotheses and bridge the gap between classical engineering principles and modern data science.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-05-04 , Earliest start: 2026-08-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-01
Organization Computational Mechanics of Building Materials
Hosts van Jan
Topics Mathematical Sciences , Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Physics
Programmable Magnetic Microrobots for Targeted Therapies
This Master's thesis (or semester project) will focus on engineering magnetic microrobots for controlled dissolution under in vivo conditions. We will develop and characterize magnetic microrobots based on different hydrogels, compositions, and degrees of crosslinking. The main objective is to tailor the dissolution properties of the microrobots to enable controlled drug delivery and safe clearance from the body after completion of a defined task. Validation of microrobot performance in physiologically relevant environments may include an animal study.
Keywords
Magnetic microrobots, hydrogels, dissolution, drug delivery
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Semester Project , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-29 , Earliest start: 2026-04-13 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Applications limited to ETH Zurich , EPFL - Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne , Empa , Balgrist Campus , Swiss National Science Foundation , University of Basel , University of Berne , University of Fribourg , University of Lausanne , Wyss Translational Center Zurich , University of Zurich , University of St. Gallen , University of Lucerne , University of Geneva , Sirm Institute for Regenerative Medicine , Institute for Research in Biomedicine
Organization Multiscale Robotics Lab
Hosts Oral Cagatay
Topics Engineering and Technology , Chemistry
Development of Sustainable Polymer-Based Coatings for Corrosion Protection
Corrosion protection remains a key challenge in high-performance industries such as aerospace, where conventional coating systems often rely on environmentally critical substances that are increasingly restricted. This thesis focuses on the development of a novel, sustainable polymer-based coating system as an alternative to existing technologies. The project combines polymer synthesis, material design, and coating engineering, with a strong emphasis on industrial applicability and scalability. The goal is to develop and tailor a novel polymer system for corrosion protection on aluminum alloys (e.g., AA2024). This includes controlled synthesis and modification of the material, followed by formulation and processing into coatings. Key performance targets include mechanical robustness, adhesion, and long-term corrosion resistance under relevant conditions. The project is research-driven, while being closely aligned with real industrial requirements and application scenarios, offering direct insight into the translation of materials from lab to application.
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Semester Project , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-04-29 , Earliest start: 2026-06-01
Organization Multifunctional Materials
Hosts Yu Yingying
Topics Engineering and Technology , Chemistry
Spatial Proteomics of Mechanically-Driven Bone Healing
Bone healing is profoundly influenced by its mechanical environment. Advances in spatial proteomics now allow us to map protein expression within intact tissue and directly relate it to local biomechanical cues. The Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics is developing a new line of research within spatial mechanomics (DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adp8496), integrating spatially resolved proteomic data with in silico models of the mechanical environment at fracture sites. This approach enables us to investigate, at cellular resolution, how mechanical forces shape protein-level signalling during bone repair.
Keywords
Bone, Mechanobiology, Spatial Proteomics, Protein Expression, Aging, Sex Differences, Mechanical Loading, Finite Element Modelling, Image Analysis
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-28 , Earliest start: 2025-12-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Müller Group / Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics
Hosts Mathavan Neashan
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Biology
Electrical Engineering Student (Part-time / Flexible) – Point-of-Care Diagnostics Hardware & Firmware
Diaxxo, an ETH Zürich spin-off, is looking for an Electrical Engineering student to support the development of electronics and embedded systems for diaxxoCare, an automated Point-of-Care PCR platform for decentralized molecular diagnostics. The project will involve high-level system design, PCB development or adaptation, electronics integration, bring-up and testing, and embedded firmware implementation for sensors, actuators, and device-level checkpoints. The student will work on a real commercial device, contributing to a practical solution that can be rapidly integrated into Diaxxo’s product development roadmap.
Keywords
Electrical Engineering, Embedded Systems, PCB Design, KiCad, Firmware, Motor Control, Sensors, Electronics Bring-up, Linux, Point-of-Care, PCR Diagnostics, Prototyping
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Semester Project , Internship , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-24 , Earliest start: 2026-06-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Functional Materials Laboratory
Hosts Gregorini Michele
Topics Engineering and Technology
Internship: Assembly & Production (Diagnostics Hardware)
Diaxxo is seeking a motivated intern to support the assembly and production of diagnostic devices and cartridges at our labs in Dietlikon/Zürich. Join our dynamic startup and work hands-on with cutting-edge PCR technology.
Keywords
Diagnostics • PCR • Biotechnology • Innovation • Start-up • Viral Detection • Quality Control • Device Assembly • Healthcare • Hardware • Electrical
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Collaboration , Internship , Lab Practice
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Published since: 2026-04-24 , Earliest start: 2025-09-07 , Latest end: 2026-04-30
Organization Functional Materials Laboratory
Hosts Gregorini Michele
Topics Engineering and Technology
Development of a High-Precision Liquid Dispensing Module for Automated Molecular Diagnostics
Diaxxo, an ETH Zürich spin-off, is developing advanced automation technologies for its Point-of-Care PCR platform, diaxxoCare. This project focuses on the development of an in-house liquid dispensing module capable of pipetting variable liquid volumes with high precision and repeatability. The student will support the design, prototyping, integration, and testing of a compact dispensing system suitable for automated diagnostic workflows. Depending on the student’s background, the project may include mechanical design, fluidics, electronics, sensor integration, control algorithms, embedded firmware, and performance validation. The final goal is to deliver a working prototype and test data supporting future integration into Diaxxo’s commercial device platform.
Keywords
Point-of-Care diagnostics; PCR automation; liquid handling; precision dispensing; pipetting module; fluidics; embedded systems; mechatronics; sensor integration; medical device development; prototyping; automated diagnostics.
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-24 , Earliest start: 2026-06-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Functional Materials Laboratory
Hosts Gregorini Michele
Topics Engineering and Technology
Experimental Testing and Cartridge Manufacturing Support for Molecular Diagnostics
Diaxxo, an ETH Zürich spin-off, is looking for a motivated student or intern to support wet-lab testing, data analysis, and cartridge manufacturing activities for its automated Point-of-Care PCR platform, diaxxoCare. The work will include preparing and performing experimental runs, analyzing PCR and sample-preparation results, supporting the production and quality control of single-use diagnostic cartridges, and documenting findings in a structured way. This hands-on role is ideal for a student interested in molecular diagnostics, laboratory work, manufacturing processes, and applied product development in a start-up environment.
Keywords
Point-of-Care diagnostics; PCR; qPCR; molecular diagnostics; wet lab; experimental testing; assay validation; sample preparation; cartridge manufacturing; consumable production; quality control; data analysis; automated diagnostics; biotechnology; veterinary diagnostics.
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Internship , Lab Practice , Student Assistant / HiWi
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Published since: 2026-04-24 , Earliest start: 2026-07-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Functional Materials Laboratory
Hosts Gregorini Michele
Topics Engineering and Technology , Chemistry , Biology
Engineering of a Smart Consumable-Check Module (prototype, hardware, firmware) for innovative diagnostic devices
DiaxxoCare is a Point-of-Care PCR platform designed for professional use in decentralized and resource-limited settings, where robustness against user mistakes is essential. This project develops an implementation-ready checkpoint system that detects missing or incorrectly placed consumables and unsafe device states (e.g., door/lid not closed), guides the user to recover via the UI, and blocks or pauses the workflow when required conditions are not met. The work includes sensor/actuator selection, firmware/software logic, prototype integration, and validation testing to enable fast deployment on commercial devices.
Keywords
Point-of-Care diagnostics; consumable detection; sensors; actuators; embedded systems; firmware; interlocks; human factors; prototyping; verification & validation; medical/veterinary devices; diaxxoCare
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Semester Project , Course Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-24 , Earliest start: 2026-01-01 , Latest end: 2026-08-31
Organization Functional Materials Laboratory
Hosts Gregorini Michele
Topics Engineering and Technology
Development of a Semi-Empirical Simulation Framework for Ultrashort-Pulse Laser Drilling
This thesis develops a semi‑empirical simulation framework for ultrashort‑pulse laser ablation with a focus on laser drilling, balancing predictive capability and computational efficiency. The model is implemented in Python and experimentally validated to capture systematic parameter trends across process conditions, enabling future data‑driven optimization
Keywords
Simulation, modeling, system identification, parameter estimation, lasers
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-23 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01 , Latest end: 2027-12-01
Organization Advanced Manufacturing Laboratory
Hosts Schröder Nikolai
Topics Engineering and Technology
Hydrogen Defects and Resistive Switching in SrTiO3 Memory Devices
Valence change memory (VCM) devices have gained significant interest in recent years due to their promising applications in analog and neuromorphic computing applications [1]. Despite that, the exact mechanism underlying the resistive switching remains unraveled. In addition, this material possesses an unusually long persistent conductivity that has been linked to hydrogen defects [2]. To better understand the role of hydrogen defects in STO, we propose a project that combines experiments and theory (Fig. 1).
Keywords
Memory devices, Fabrication, Simulation
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-22 , Earliest start: 2026-07-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-31
Organization Nano-TCAD (Luisier)
Hosts He Hanglin
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Bridging the Reachability Gap: Learned Forward Dynamics for Loco-Manipulator Guidance of RL based Whole-Body Control
This project bridges the reachability gap between embodiment-agnostic demonstrations and physical loco-manipulators. A neural forward dynamics model, trained in IsaacLab, implicitly captures the robot's closed-loop constraints, including transients and stabilization. By mapping commanded poses to settled end-effector positions, this model can act as a reachability filter during diffusion denoising for task-space visuomotor policies.
Keywords
Embodiment-Agnostic Learning, Forward Dynamics Modeling, Loco-manipulation, IsaacLab Simulation
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-20 , Earliest start: 2026-04-20
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Zurbrügg René , Portela Tifanny
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Autonomous Affordance Discovery & Assignment for Collaborative Transportation
This project aims to train multiple quadrupedal manipulators (ALMA) to automatically discover, allocate, approach, and grasp multiple handles on a payload in unstructured environments, forming the configuration ready for collaborative transportation.
Keywords
Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning Collaborative Transportation Visual Affordance Discovery
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Semester Project , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-20 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Wang Shengzhi , An Tianxu
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
AI-Driven Rock Reshaping Simulation and Control
This project develops an intelligent system for controlling rock fracture by combining finite element analysis (FEM) with machine learning. FEM simulations train a graph neural network (GNN) to predict fracture patterns. A reinforcement learning (RL) agent then uses this predictive GNN to learn optimal actions for guiding fractures towards a desired rock geometry, enabling precise and goal-oriented control.
Keywords
machine learning, deep learning, reinforcement learning, graph neural networks, construction robotics, space robotics
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Semester Project , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-19 , Earliest start: 2025-07-07
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Spinelli Filippo , Gouveia Marina , Spinelli Filippo , Canales Claudio
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Reduced-Order Modeling for Density-Based Topology Optimization
This Master's Thesis opportunity is jointly offered by the Chair of Structural Mechanics & Monitoring at ETH Zürich (Prof. Dr. Eleni Chatzi) and by the Group of Engineering Dynamics at ETH Zürich (Dr. Paolo Tiso). Topology optimization is a powerful tool for determining optimal material distribution, but its iterative nature leads to high computational costs, especially for large-scale problems. On the other hand, its high-dimensional design space poses unique challenges to apply conventional reduced-order modeling techniques. This thesis investigates methodologies to tackle these challenges, thus providing a framework for accelerated topology optimization routines.
Keywords
Reduced-Order Modeling, topology optimization, surrogate models, machine learning
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Semester Project , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-18 , Earliest start: 2026-07-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Structural Mechanics (Prof. Chatzi)
Hosts Chatzi Eleni , Betti Federico , Tiso Paolo
Topics Mathematical Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Humanoid Loco-Manipulation with Pretrained Motion Trackers
Give a humanoid robot the ability to see and physically interact with its environment by developing Reinforcement Learning policies that connect visual perception to advanced motion trackers. You will solve complex loco-manipulation challenges—like visually guided pick-and-place—and deploy your resulting pipeline from simulation directly onto a real-world robot.
Keywords
Human-Object Interaction (HOI), Whole-Body Trackers (WBC), Reinforcement Learning (RL)
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-17 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01 , Latest end: 2026-11-30
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Li Yixiao , Lopez Adria
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Laser-induced synthesis of fire-resistant materials on wood
Wood’s flammability poses safety risks that restrict its industrial use. Although h-BN is an effective fire-retardant, current coating methods suffer from poor adhesion and low efficiency. We propose a new CO2 laser-synthesis method to overcome these barriers. This project aims to advance this technology, creating durable and efficient next-generation fire-retardant coatings.
Keywords
Wood, h-BN, ceramics, fire-resistance, laser synthesis, coating
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-17 , Earliest start: 2026-05-03 , Latest end: 2027-01-29
Organization Wood Materials Science (Prof. Burgert)
Hosts Rouèche Mélanie
Topics Engineering and Technology
Neuroimaging: Electrical and Optical Imaging to Study Neuronal Communication In Vitro
This project offers the opportunity to investigate neuronal communication using in vitro models of neural networks. The work will focus on the cultivation and maintenance of neuronal cultures, combined with advanced imaging techniques to study functional activity and connectivity. A key component of the project involves the development and optimization of experimental and analytical methods to interrogate neuronal dynamics, with potential applications in pharmacological screening and neurobiological research.
Keywords
Neuroscience, Neuronal Networks, In Vitro Models, Cell Culture, Microscopy, Biomedical Engineering
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Semester Project , Internship , Lab Practice , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-15 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01
Organization Bio Engineering Laboratory
Hosts Cardes Fernando
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Biology
PDMS-Based Bioreactor Investigating Cell Behavior in Response to Hydrostatic Pressure and Substrate Stiffness
Introduction and Background Skin cells dynamically respond to mechanical and biochemical stimuli, which influence critical processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and migration. By understanding this interplay, mechanical and biochemical stimuli may be used in the future to facilitate the growth of skin patches, tissue formation, and organ regeneration, enabling new therapies and benefiting patients. The study of these responses, mechanobiology, requires advanced in-vitro systems to emulate physiological conditions. This project utilizes a device designed for controlled manipulation of hydrostatic pressure (0.1–1.5 kPa) and substrate stiffness (0.1–100 kPa). The system facilitates isolated and scalable experiments to analyze how the interplay of these mechanical parameters affects cell behavior. In this thesis, the student will use this system to investigate how different stimuli affect cell behavior.
Keywords
Bioreactor, tissue engineering, organ regeneration
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-15 , Earliest start: 2026-06-01 , Latest end: 2027-01-31
Organization Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory
Hosts Cuni Filippo
Topics Engineering and Technology , Biology
How Does Dry Skin Drive Inflammation? Masters Project in Osmotic Stress and Human Macrophage Biology
We are investigating how osmotic stress in the wound microenvironment regulates macrophage phenotype and immune-stromal crosstalk in inflammatory disease. A hyperosmotic microenvironment develops in diseases such as atopic dermatitis, which involve a loss of barrier function and transepidermal water loss, and has been shown to be associated with a more activated macrophage phenotype. This project sits at the intersection of immunology, cell biology and biomaterials, and involves establishing primary human macrophage models to study how osmotic stress drives macrophage phenotype, as well as how osmotic stress-driven changes in fibroblast-secreted extracellular matrix drive innate immune cell behavior. The project is conducted in close collaboration with the Werner Lab at ETH Zürich, which brings expertise in skin biology, NFAT5 signaling, and decellularized extracellular matrix proteomics. Specifically, the position will involve characterizing expression of pro-inflammatory markers of human-derived macrophages in response to both ionic and non-ionic osmotic stress. Once this is established, co-culture with human dermal fibroblasts in both normo-osmotic and hyperosmotic conditions, in 2D systems and 3D collagen gels, will be used to study how osmolarity affects cell phenotype.
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-04-15 , Earliest start: 2026-04-14 , Latest end: 2027-06-01
Organization Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory
Hosts Tibbitt Mark
Topics Engineering and Technology , Biology
In-sensor cryptographic signature generation
This project explores the design and evaluation of a secure signature circuit for integration into a CMOS chip. Depending on the student’s background, the work can involve VLSI architecture exploration, implementation of cryptographic primitives such as hashing and encryption, or security analysis of the resulting design. Students from VLSI, embedded systems, computer engineering, and cybersecurity are all encouraged to participate. The goal is to identify the most effective and secure design for real‑world hardware deployment.
Keywords
VLSI; Cryptography; Hardware Security; RTL Design; HDL; Key Management; Secure Systems; Cybersecurity;
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Semester Project , Collaboration , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-15 , Earliest start: 2026-04-01
Organization Bio Engineering Laboratory
Hosts Cardes Fernando
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Microfluidic Biomaterials Platform Development: Advanced In Vitro Model of Fibrosis
We are developing a novel photo-responsive 3D granular hydrogel platform using microfluidic chips to study mechanotransduction in fibrosis and skin biology. This project involves fabricating and characterizing advanced biomaterial systems with dynamic mechanical properties to investigate how cells sense and respond to their physical microenvironment, such as stiffness and confinement. The platform is used to model fibrotic diseases, which are characterized by extracellular matrix stiffening, as well as to validate protein hits from in vivo skin stretch experiments, in collaboration with the Werner and Mazza Groups at ETH Zürich. While stiffness is known to induce a myofibroblast phenotype in fibroblasts, a contractile phenotype, which contributes further to fibrosis through aberrant deposition of excessive ECM, however, this understanding is based on studies in which cells are cultured on 2D static substrates. We are developing a material that allows dynamic changes to matrix stiffness within 3D cell culture to elucidate novel mechanotransduction pathways regulating myofibroblast activation in 3D.
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Semester Project , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-04-14 , Earliest start: 2026-04-14 , Latest end: 2027-06-01
Organization Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory
Hosts Tibbitt Mark
Topics Engineering and Technology , Biology
HASEL-Driven Rotation Drive Design and Testing
Master’s Thesis Opportunity at ETH Zurich We’re exploring a new kind of rotational actuator based on stacked HASEL (Hydraulically Amplified Self-Healing Electrostatic) actuators. The goal is to convert the linear motion of soft actuators into continuous rotation using a new mechanism we have developed. We want to outperform traditional motors in specific power, quiet operation, and adaptability all while eliminating the need for magnets from the motor system. This work will be in collaboration with colleagues at Northeastern University in Boston MA.
Keywords
electrostatic actuators, rotational motors, HASEL
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-13 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-31
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Toshimitsu Yasunori
Topics Engineering and Technology
Analysis of Metal Accumulation Mechanisms in Bacteria for Sustainable Biomining of Rare Earth Elements
Traditional mining of rare earth elements is highly energy intensive and pollutes the environment. Biomining, in which microorganisms are used to extract rare earth elements from ores, could offer a sustainable alternative in the future. However, we do not fully understand when and how bacteria accumulate these metals. Moreover, current validation steps to understand this are not foolproof. We would therefore like to understand the mechanisms of rare earth element accumulation by bacteria.
Keywords
Biomining Rare earth metals Bacteria ICP-MS Confocal Microscopy SEM
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-04-10 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01
Organization Complex Materials
Hosts van Bokhoven Roos-Marie
Topics Chemistry , Biology
Biomechanical Investigation of a Self-Lubricating Hip Prosthesis in the Presence of an Articulating Femoral Head
Current joint replacements cannot replicate the natural weeping lubrication mechanism found in cartilage, resulting in a typical implant lifespan of about 15–20 years due to friction and wear, often leading to revision surgery, particularly in younger patients. Inspired by the load-induced self-pressurization behavior of articular cartilage, we aim to design and develop a novel self-lubricating hip prosthesis that mimics this physiological lubrication mechanism. We have developed a self-lubricating hip prosthesis model in COMSOL Multiphysics that integrates three coupled multiphysics phenomena: Fluid–Structure Interaction, Free and Porous Media Flow, and Poroelasticity. In this semester project, the computational model will be extended by incorporating the femoral head to represent the physiological articulating joint configuration more realistically. The study will investigate how the presence of the femoral head influences fluid pressure distribution, fluid transport, and lubrication behavior within the prosthesis under physiological loading conditions. In addition, the effect of the non-Newtonian rheological behavior of synovial fluid on the lubrication response of the system will be examined. Students with a background in mechanical engineering, particularly in fluid dynamics, are encouraged to apply. Prior experience with COMSOL Multiphysics is beneficial but not mandatory.
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Published since: 2026-04-09 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01 , Latest end: 2026-08-01
Organization Musculoskeletal Biomechanics
Hosts Mosayebi Mahdieh
Topics Engineering and Technology
Deep Learning of Residual Physics For Soft Robot Simulation
Incorporating state-of-the-art deep learning approaches to augment conventional soft robotic simulations for a fast, accurate and useful simulation for real soft robots.
Keywords
Soft Robotics, Machine Learning, Physical Modeling, Simulation
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Semester Project , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-03 , Earliest start: 2026-01-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Michelis Mike , Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr.
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Microelectronic circuit design for neural interfaces in 0.18um CMOS technology
This project is about the development of integrated circuits to study neurons and neural networks, and may comprise different parts of the design including analog and/or digital microelectronics, PCB design, signal processing and programming.
Keywords
Microelectronics, CMOS, circuit design, electronics, PCB, signal processing, neural interface.
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-04-02 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01
Organization Bio Engineering Laboratory
Hosts Cardes Fernando
Topics Engineering and Technology
On-chip Cryptographic Signatures
This project focuses on the design and evaluation of a signature circuit intended for secure integration into a CMOS chip. The student will explore different architectural interpretations, implement cryptographic primitives such as hashing and encryption, and assess the circuit’s performance and security. The goal is to identify the most effective design for real-world deployment in secure hardware.
Keywords
VLSI; Cryptography; Hardware Security; RTL Design; HDL; Key Management; Secure Systems; Cybersecurity;
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Published since: 2026-04-02 , Earliest start: 2026-04-01
Organization Bio Engineering Laboratory
Hosts Cardes Fernando
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Domain Randomization for Robust Sampling-Based Model Predictive Control on Bipedal Wheeled Robots
Reinforcement learning with domain randomization achieves robust sim-to-real transfer for legged robots but produces fixed policies lacking online adaptability. GPU-accelerated sampling-based MPC offers online adaptability and interpretable objectives but suffers from brittle sim-to-real transfer. This work proposes integrating domain randomization directly into the sampling-based MPC loop (DR-MPC) for robust sim-to-real transfer on the LIMX Tron1 bipedal wheeled robot, without requiring online parameter estimation or per-robot tuning. Two complementary instantiations are presented: (1) DR-MPC with physics simulation, which randomizes dynamics parameters across GPU-parallelized rollouts and selects actions via MPPI/CEM with tunable risk-sensitive cost aggregation; and (2) DR-MPC with learned surrogate dynamics, which trains a neural dynamics model conditioned on physical parameters on domain-randomized data. Key design choices including parameter selection, randomization range, cost aggregation, and sample budget allocation are ablated on velocity tracking, push recovery, slope traversal, and turning tasks.
Keywords
model-predictive-control, domain-randomization, bipedal-wheeled-robots, world-models
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-04-01 , Earliest start: 2026-04-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Applications limited to ETH Zurich
Organization Computational robotics laboratory (Prof. Stelian Coros)
Hosts Cheng Jin
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences
Advancing Fluid-Structure Interaction Simulations for Soft Robots
Soft robots are characterized by their ability to continuously deform and adapt to complex environments, making them ideal for tasks in unstructured, dynamic settings. Our lab is developing a cutting-edge soft robot modeling framework that employs FEM and energy-based methods to simulate these robots. Simulating the interactions of these soft robots with their surrounding fluid is crucial for capturing the physics of the robots’ deformation accurately. We have developed a fluid dynamics solver operating on the principle of minimizing energy. The framework now requires thorough benchmarking, optimization for speed, and extension with SRL’s in-house FEM framework for coupling with soft deformable bodies.
Keywords
Fluid Dynamics, Fluid-Structure Interaction, Soft Robot Simulation, Scientific Computing
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-03-31 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Dhaker Adamya
Topics Engineering and Technology
Optimal Tool Geometry Design for Micromachining
Micromilling plays an important role in the industry, where high precision, excellent surface quality, and reliable tool performance are essential. In such applications, tool geometry strongly influences cutting forces, tool wear, and the roughness of the generated surface, and therefore has a direct impact on process quality, productivity, and cost. Yet in practice, tool selection is often based mainly on available catalog tools and empirical know-how rather than on a systematic process-specific methodology. This project aims to develop a simulation-based model to characterize the influence of cutting geometry on machining performance and to use this understanding for targeted tool selection and optimization.
Keywords
Micromilling; Optimization; Simulation; Manufacturing
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Internship , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-28
Organization Computational Modelling of Materials in Manufacturing
Hosts Ostad Ali Akbari Vahid, Dr.
Topics Engineering and Technology
Product Design & Regulatory Assessment of Microgel-Based Biomaterial Systems
This project aims to evaluate different device formats for delivering microgel-based therapies. The focus will be on engineering feasibility, biomolecule assays, and the regulatory landscape governing these devices.
Keywords
Microgels, Biomaterials, Wound healing, Product development, Feasibility, Simulations, FEM, Regulatory, Clinical
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-27 , Earliest start: 2026-04-12 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Applications limited to Empa , CSEM - Centre Suisse d'Electronique et Microtechnique , Balgrist Campus , Department of Quantitative Biomedicine , EPFL - Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne , ETH Zurich , Forschungsinstitut für biologischen Landbau (FiBL) , Hochschulmedizin Zürich , IBM Research Zurich Lab , Institute for Research in Biomedicine , Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts , Pädagogische Hochschule St.Gallen , Paul Scherrer Institute , Sirm Institute for Regenerative Medicine , Swiss National Science Foundation , Università della Svizzera italiana , Université de Neuchâtel , University of Basel , University of Fribourg , University of Berne , University of Lausanne , University of Geneva , University of Lucerne , University of St. Gallen , University of Zurich , Zurich University of Applied Sciences
Organization Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory
Hosts Emiroglu Börte
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Chemistry , Biology
End-to-End Setup of AI-Enabled Industrial Workflows
This thesis investigates how AI-enabled industrial workflows with integrated visual verification can be configured end-to-end by non-expert users. Using a digital workflow platform, the work explores how process definition, dataset creation, and model configuration impact verification reliability. Through experimental evaluation across real-world use cases—including industrial maintenance tasks such as Hilti DX76 tool cleaning—the thesis derives practical guidelines for building robust, user-friendly AI-assisted workflows.
Keywords
Digital workflows, computer vision, industrial AI, visual verification, human-AI interaction, workflow automation, maintenance processes, dataset design
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Semester Project , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-03-26 , Earliest start: 2026-03-26 , Latest end: 2026-09-30
Organization pd|z Product Development Group Zurich
Hosts Hogenkamp Maarten
Topics Engineering and Technology
Learning Coordinated Dual-Arm Manipulation Policies for Parcel Handling
Recent breakthroughs in robot learning (Diffusion Policy, ACT/ALOHA, RDT-1B) have unlocked dexterous single-arm manipulation from a handful of demonstrations. Yet coordinated dual-arm manipulation of real-world objects remains largely unsolved. Logistics is the ideal proving ground: parcels vary wildly in size, mass, and shape, and many are simply too large or heavy for a single arm. This thesis develops a learning-based controller that enables two robot arms (UR5/UR20) to jointly grasp and manipulate parcels under real warehouse conditions.
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-26 , Earliest start: 2026-03-16
Organization Computational robotics laboratory (Prof. Stelian Coros)
Hosts Coros Stelian
Topics Engineering and Technology
Learning Object Dependency Graphs for Physical Manipulation in Clutter
Robots operating in real-world environments must manipulate objects that are rarely arranged neatly. In logistics centers and warehouses, objects often form cluttered piles where items support, block, or constrain each other. Removing the wrong object can destabilize the scene or cause failures. Humans naturally reason about these physical relationships and identify which objects can be safely removed. Enabling robots to develop a similar capability remains an open challenge in robotics. This project explores how robots can learn to infer physical relationships between objects in cluttered scenes and use this understanding to select better manipulation actions.
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Published since: 2026-03-26 , Earliest start: 2026-03-15
Organization Computational robotics laboratory (Prof. Stelian Coros)
Hosts Coros Stelian
Topics Engineering and Technology
Scene graphs meet implicit representations
Explore novel, hierarchical spatial memory representations for flexible robot autonomy
Keywords
Hierarchical scene graphs, implicit representations, RL
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-19 , Earliest start: 2026-03-23
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Kneip Laurent
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
LLM-based scene graph construction and navigation
Use LLM priors for efficient scene graph construction and navigation in urban environments
Keywords
Open vocabulary scene graphs, urban navigation, planning
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-19 , Earliest start: 2026-03-23
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Kneip Laurent
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Learning-based robot state estimation
Achieve high-quality state estimation on any platform via conditioned neural representations
Keywords
Learning-based state estimation
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-19 , Earliest start: 2026-03-23
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Kneip Laurent
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Monitoring in-vitro neural network dynamics using microelectrode arrays
Join our interdisciplinary research team to explore the fascinating world of neuronal networks in vitro. These master projects focus on culturing neurons on CMOS-based microelectrode arrays (MEAs) to study their electrophysiological properties. The exact project scope will be tailored to your interests and background, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge neuroscience and bioengineering research.
Keywords
Neuroscience, Cell Culture, CMOS MEA, Electrophysiology, In Vitro Models, Neural Networks, Bioengineering, Neurotechnology
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Semester Project , Internship , Lab Practice , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-13 , Earliest start: 2026-04-01
Organization Bio Engineering Laboratory
Hosts Cardes Fernando
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Biology
Portable Microscope Product Development
Join Eureka to reinvent microscopes as consumer electronics products. We are seeking a motivated student to design a high-precision, low-cost sample stage and focusing mechanism for a portable digital microscope that brings professional-grade imaging to the consumer market. Your design will potentially be used by: citizen scientists who monitor the algae diversity of Swiss Lakes, nature discovery lovers who are ready for the micro-level wonders, and parents/teachers who want to give more fun to the young. Our website: https://www.eurekamicroscope.com/
Keywords
Mechatronics, Microscopy, Consumer Electronics, Hardware, mechanical design, 3d-printing
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Published since: 2026-03-10 , Earliest start: 2026-03-25 , Latest end: 2026-09-30
Organization pd|z Product Development Group Zurich
Hosts Zhang Siyi
Topics Engineering and Technology
Software Development: Enabling In Vitro Neuroscience Research
This project focuses on developing software for advanced neural interfaces used in in vitro studies. These interfaces enable precise exploration of neural activity, providing critical insights into neuronal dynamics, drug interactions, and neurological disorders. The project involves creating and optimizing software for data acquisition, analysis, and visualization, which directly enhances the usability and impact of these tools in research and healthcare applications. Ideal candidates will possess strong programming skills in Python. This project is available as Master thesis or semester project.
Keywords
Software development; Neural Interfaces; Neuroscience; Python; Biomedical Research; Neuroengineering; Neurotechnology.
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Semester Project , Internship , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-10 , Earliest start: 2026-04-01
Organization Bio Engineering Laboratory
Hosts Cardes Fernando
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences
High-Speed Hardware Design for Neural Signal Acquisition
This project centers on designing and developing high-speed electronics for advanced CMOS microelectrode arrays (MEAs) used in in vitro neuroscience research. These electronics are critical for interfacing with neural tissue, enabling precise control and data acquisition from high-density electrode arrays. The project involves schematic design, layout, signal integrity optimization, and testing of printed-circuit boards PCBs operating at ~100 MHz. Ideal candidates will have experience with Altium Designer and a strong foundation in electronics and signal processing.
Keywords
PCB Design; CMOS MEA; Altium; Signal Integrity; Neurotechnology; Neural interface; BCI; Neuroscience
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-03-10 , Earliest start: 2026-04-01
Organization Bio Engineering Laboratory
Hosts Cardes Fernando
Topics Engineering and Technology
Enhancing Long-Range Navigation with VLMs
This project aims to enhance the WildOS [1] navigation framework by integrating a Vision-Language Model (VLM) [2,3] to perform semantic reasoning over a sparse topological graph. While standard WildOS excels at geometric navigation and open-vocabulary object search, it often lacks the high-level context needed to navigate "semantic traps" like dead-ends or complex roadblocks. By storing VLM-generated node summaries and image captions within the graph, the robot can transition from simple pattern matching to logical spatial querying. This allows the agent to interpret the environment's affordances—such as identifying if a path is "blocked by a gate" versus "temporarily obstructed by a person"—to make more informed recovery decisions.
Keywords
Foundation Models, Computer Vision, Navigation, Perception, Vision-Language Models, VLMs, Robotics, ROS, Field Robotics, Machine Learning,
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-09 , Earliest start: 2026-03-09 , Latest end: 2026-10-31
Applications limited to ETH Zurich
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Patil Vaishakh , Patel Manthan
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Mini-muscle gym: Developing a Broad-field Electrical and Mechanical Stimulation Device for Biohybrid Robots
Biohybrid robotics seeks to replace conventional actuator materials with engineered muscle to harness the adaptability and efficiency of biological systems. A major challenge, however, remains the limited force output of engineered skeletal muscle tissues. This project aims to address that limitation through the development of an electrical stimulation system integrated into a muscle-maturation platform ("mini-muscle gym") designed to enhance tissue strength via mechanical and electrical cues. The work will involve circuit and PCB design, implementation within an existing mechanical framework, and close collaboration with tissue engineers to meet biological requirements. The resulting thesis will form an interdisciplinary contribution at the interface of engineering and biology. See attached pdf for further details and references.
Keywords
Biohybrid robotics, soft robotics, circuit design, signal generation, biomaterials, electrical stimulation, mechanical stimulation, actuation, tissue engineering, muscle tissue, muscle cells.
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-04 , Earliest start: 2026-03-01 , Latest end: 2026-11-30
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Balciunaite Aiste , Paniagua Pablo , Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr.
Topics Engineering and Technology
Student projects opportunities at the Medical Robotics Lab
The Medical Robotics Lab led by Prof. Quentin Boehler is actively seeking motivated students to contribute to medical and surgical robotics projects See the full list of proposed projects at: https://mero.ethz.ch/education.html
Keywords
Medical and Surgical Robotics, Minimally Invasive Procedures
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-04
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Organization Multiscale Robotics Lab
Hosts Boehler Quentin
Topics Engineering and Technology
3D reconstruction with open-vocabulary reconstruction priors
Push the limits of arbitrary online video reconstruction by combining the most recent, prior-supported real-time Simultaneous Localization And Mapping (SLAM) methods with automatic backend regularization techniques.
Keywords
Structure from Motion Visual SLAM
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-03-01 , Earliest start: 2025-07-01
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Kneip Laurent
Topics Engineering and Technology
Event-based feature detection for highly dynamic tracking
Event cameras are an exciting new technology enabling sensing of highly dynamic content over a broad range of illumination conditions. The present thesis explores novel, sparse, event-driven paradigms for detecting structure and motion patterns in raw event streams.
Keywords
Event camera, neuromorphic sensing, feature detection, computer vision
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-01 , Earliest start: 2025-03-17
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Kneip Laurent
Topics Engineering and Technology
Soft object reconstruction
This project consists of reconstructing soft object along with their appearance, geometry, and physical properties from image data for inclusion in reinforcement learning frameworks for manipulation tasks.
Keywords
Computer Vision, Structure from Motion, Image-based Reconstruction, Physics-based Reconstruction
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-01 , Earliest start: 2025-03-17
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Kneip Laurent
Topics Engineering and Technology
Generalist policies for robotic bike racing
This project addresses the problem of overfitting in autonomous robotic racing by developing generalist reinforcement learning (RL) policies. Conducted in collaboration between the RAI Institute and ETH Zurich, the research focuses on creating robust track embeddings for complex terrains. These embeddings will condition policies for a bike-like ultra-mobile vehicle (UMV), enabling it to autonomously race on previously unknown mountain-bike trails. The ultimate goal is to deploy these policies on physical hardware to achieve competitive, real-world performance via zero-shot transfer or minimal simulation refinement.
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-01
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Jenelten Fabian, Dr.
Topics Engineering and Technology
Master Thesis: Autonomous Robotic Cardiac Catheters - Project Abroad at Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School
We are developing advanced robotic catheter systems to enable precise heart valve repair and the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. Robotic platforms have the potential to shorten the learning curve for complex beating‑heart procedures and provide a foundation for introducing autonomous functionality. Key elements of this work include the development of autonomous control strategies, integration of therapeutic devices, and comprehensive testing in anatomical and preclinical animal models. Preferred skill sets include experience in robotics, machine learning, control systems, and prototyping.
Keywords
robotic cardiac catheters,valve repair, robotic treatment of arrythmia
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-26 , Earliest start: 2026-04-01 , Latest end: 2027-06-01
Organization Multiscale Robotics Lab
Hosts Gantenbein Valentin
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Master Thesis: Transcatheter Heart Valve Repair and Replacement Devices – Project Abroad at Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School
Transcatheter interventions offer a less invasive alternative to open-heart surgery by enabling the delivery of therapeutic devices that mimic traditional surgical repair or replacement of cardiac valves. Our work focuses on developing novel tools and devices for both valve repair and valve replacement procedures. These efforts rely on innovative design approaches, creative problem‑solving, and deep expertise in prototyping and experimental evaluation to advance next‑generation transcatheter therapies.
Keywords
transcatheter procedures, heart valve repair, replacement devices
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-26 , Earliest start: 2026-03-01 , Latest end: 2027-01-01
Organization Multiscale Robotics Lab
Hosts Gantenbein Valentin
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Automatic pain detection and assessment using wearable sensors
We want to improve the state-of-the-art on pain assessment using biomedical signals collected from subjects with induced pain. We aim to develop novel algorithms for pain assessment for low-cost wearable devices.
Keywords
pain assessment, distress detection, biomedical signal analysis, data science, medical technologies, digital health
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Semester Project , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-25 , Earliest start: 2026-01-15 , Latest end: 2026-10-30
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Organization Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Lab
Hosts Dominguez Federico
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences
Investigating trabecularization in response to intermittent parathyroid hormone therapy and mechanical loading during postmenopausal osteoporosis
The student project will investigate the bone response to intermittent parathyroid hormone (PTH) therapy after estrogen depletion with a specific focus on its capacity to induce trabecularization. The quantitative analysis of experimental in vivo micro-computed tomography scans will lead to new insights into the mechanisms of trabecularization and to define the contribution of mechanical stimulation in this process. The results are expected to advance mechanistic understanding of anabolic PTH therapy and inform the development of future patient-specific treatment strategies.
Keywords
Osteoporosis, parathyroid hormone therapy, mechanical loading, trabecular bone, python programming, R statistical evaluation
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-24 , Earliest start: 2026-06-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-31
Organization Müller Group / Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics
Hosts Schulte Friederike
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Exploring Exotic Wheels For Wheeled-Legged Robots
Wheeled-legged robots combine the advantages of wheels, i.e., efficient high-speed locomotion, with obstacle negotiation and rough terrain capabilities of legs. In this study, different exotic wheel concepts should be researched, evaluated, and possibly implemented on a real robot to potentially boost efficiency, manipulation, and functionality.
Keywords
Wheeled-Legged Robots, Wheels, Robotics, Mechanical and Hardware Design, Manipulation, Tires
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-18
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Klemm Victor
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Hierarchical Reasoning Models (HRM) for Robotics
How to properly deal with long-horizon tasks is still an unsolved problem in robot learning. Recent advances in reasoning models present Hierarchical Reasoning Models (HRM), inspired by the hierarchical and multi-timescale processing in the human brain. This fairly open project should implement and test state of the art solutions for long horizon planning that require reasoning in the context of robotics, especially robotics motion control.
Keywords
Robot learning, hierarchical reasoning, machine intelligence, long-horizon planning
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-18
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Klemm Victor
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Digital Manufacturing and Intelligent Process Planning
Machining operations (milling, turning, etc.) still play a major role in the manufacturing industry. In many industrial settings, machine tools are operated with experience-based parameter settings, which are often conservative and suboptimal. As a result, the true production capacity is not fully utilized. In addition, issues such as chatter vibration can occur, leading to poor surface quality, potential damage to the workpiece and the machining system, and shortened tool life due to unsuitable cutting conditions. This leads to increased production costs and resource consumption that could be saved through systematic process optimization.
Keywords
Manufacturing; Digital Twins; Artificial Intelligence; Process Monitoring; Chatter; Structural Dynamics
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-17
Organization Computational Modelling of Materials in Manufacturing
Hosts Ostad Ali Akbari Vahid, Dr.
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Response Inference in Evolving Conditions via Hypernetworks and Online Learning
Engineering dynamical systems operate under variability and continuously changing conditions. This poses unique requirements when designing twin representations, necessitating the adaptive updating of underlying models in real-time. This thesis aims to address this challenge via the use of hypernetworks for forecasting under variability and their fusion with online and active learning techniques. Thus, this work focuses on developing efficient update mechanisms that allow already trained and deployed surrogates to adapt to sensing data while minimizing computational cost and required measurements. The framework will be validated on benchmark dynamical systems with time-varying parameters and applied to real-world case studies.
Keywords
Hypernetworks; Scientific Machine Learning; Nonlinear Dynamics; Computational Modeling;
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-02-13 , Earliest start: 2026-02-01 , Latest end: 2026-08-31
Organization Structural Mechanics (Prof. Chatzi)
Hosts Vlachas Konstantinos , Chatzi Eleni
Topics Engineering and Technology
Automation and optimization of a melt electrowriting sytem for layered osteochondral scaffold fabrication
We are looking for a motivated master’s student to work on the automation and optimization of a melt electrowriting (MEW) system, with the aim of enabling the reproducible fabrication of layered scaffolds for osteochondral tissue engineering. The project combines machine-level development with biofabrication and scaffold design, focusing on improving process control and extending MEW toward mechanically integrated cartilage–bone constructs.
Keywords
Melt electrowriting (MEW) ; Biofabrication ; Osteochondral Scaffolds; Articular Cartilage; Subchondral Bone; Additive Manufacturing; Tissue Engineering; Scaffold Design
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Semester Project , Internship , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-02-13 , Earliest start: 2026-02-23 , Latest end: 2026-08-28
Organization Tissue Mechanobiology
Hosts Amicone Alessio , Pizorn Jaka
Topics Engineering and Technology
RL Finetuning for Generalized Locomotion
This project investigates the potential of reinforcement learning (RL) fine-tuning to develop a single, universal locomotion policy for quadruped or humanoid robots. Building on prior work in multi-terrain skill synthesis [1], we will probe the limits of generalization by systematically fine-tuning on an ever-expanding set of diverse environments. This incremental approach will test the hypothesis that a controller can learn to robustly navigate a vast range of terrains. As a potential extension, procedural terrain generation may be used to automatically create novel challenges, pushing the boundaries of policy robustness.
Keywords
Reinforcement Learning, Locomotion, Quadruped, Humanoid
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-11 , Earliest start: 2026-02-01
Organization Robotic Systems Lab
Hosts Schwarke Clemens , He Junzhe
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences
Student internship - Engineering Anisotropic Bacterial Cellulose Gels
Biological systems offer routes to build matter with controlled structure and function across scales. Among them, bacterial cellulose (BC) is uniquely attractive: produced as a fibrillar network with high purity and robust mechanical properties, it finds applications in diverse sectors including cosmetics, energy devices, and the biomedical industry. However, most research has targeted BC production yield and cost, while its microstructure, specifically fiber alignment, remains poorly understood and largely engineered post-production.
Keywords
- Hydrogel - Microscopy - Cellulose - Sustainability
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Semester Project , Internship , Master Thesis , Master Project (D-MATL)
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Published since: 2026-02-10 , Earliest start: 2026-03-15 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Complex Materials
Hosts Ansart Elise
Topics Engineering and Technology
Low-Voltage Electrohydraulic Actuators for Untethered Robots
We are building the next generation of HALVE (Hydraulically Amplified Low-Voltage Electrostatic) actuators which are flexible, electrostatic actuators that operate at voltages 5–10× lower than traditional soft electrostatic systems. You will help us explore novel actuator geometries, ultra‑thin functional layers, and new fabrication and modeling techniques to unlock scalable, energy‑efficient soft robotic systems.
Keywords
soft robotics, low-voltage actuation, dielectric elastomers, electrostatic actuators, PVDF‑TrFE‑CTFE, dielectric spectroscopy, vapor deposition, CNC sealing, LTSpice, mechatronics, materials science
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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-02-10 , Earliest start: 2026-02-28 , Latest end: 2026-12-11
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Albayrak Deniz , Hinchet Ronan
Topics Engineering and Technology
Power Electronics Design and Magnetic Levitation Control
This project aims to push the boundaries of electromagnetic navigation systems. While these systems are primarily designed for clinical medical applications, we are deploying them for high-performance remote magnetic levitation. The goal is two-fold: optimizing the hardware drivers and exploring advanced dynamic control applications.
Keywords
PCB design, power electronics, electromagnetic levitation, feedback control
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Semester Project , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-09 , Earliest start: 2026-02-10
Organization Multiscale Robotics Lab
Hosts Zughaibi Jasan
Topics Engineering and Technology
Process Monitoring and Predictive Maintenance in Modern Manufacturing
Efficient and reliable manufacturing requires continuous insight into process and machine conditions. This student project focuses on process monitoring and predictive maintenance with an emphasis on tool wear and machine vibrations, aiming to improve productivity, precision, and equipment lifetime through data-driven monitoring and decision support.
Keywords
Process Monitoring; Predictive Maintenance; Tool Wear; Vibrations; Manufacturing Systems
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-06
Organization Computational Modelling of Materials in Manufacturing
Hosts Ostad Ali Akbari Vahid, Dr.
Topics Engineering and Technology
Imitation Learning for Dual-Arm Robotic Unloading with Two KUKA iiwa Manipulators
This project aims to investigate imitation learning methods for dual-arm robotic unloading tasks using two KUKA iiwa manipulators. Dual-arm systems offer human-level dexterity for handling large or cluttered boxes, but learning coordinated bimanual behaviors remains a challenging research problem due to tight spatial coupling, contact-rich interactions, and task variability. The overall objective is to leverage recent advances in imitation learning to acquire robust and generalizable unloading strategies from human demonstrations
Keywords
robotics, control, machine learning, imitation learning, industrial application
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-06 , Earliest start: 2026-02-16 , Latest end: 2026-08-31
Organization pd|z Product Development Group Zurich
Hosts Gimeno Lucas
Topics Engineering and Technology
Software Development for Machining Digital Twin Implementation
This student project focuses on implementing existing models in Python to create a digital twin of machining systems. The work emphasizes understanding available physics-based models, designing a robust and maintainable software architecture, and developing user interfaces to enable efficient simulation and analysis.
Keywords
Software Development; Digital Twin; Python; User Interface; Manufacturing
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Student Assistant / HiWi
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Published since: 2026-02-06
Organization Computational Modelling of Materials in Manufacturing
Hosts Ostad Ali Akbari Vahid, Dr.
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Structural Dynamics Characterization for Productive Machining
Unstable vibrations in milling (chatter) are a major challenge in industry, limiting productivity by forcing operators to use conservative cutting parameters. Such vibrations can cause severe and costly damage to tools, machine tools, and workpieces. The structural dynamics of the machine tool play a key role in the occurrence and characteristics of these vibrations. It has been shown in several cases that material removal rates in milling can be increased by up to 1000% when structural dynamics are well understood and optimal cutting parameters are selected. This project focuses on developing an industry-friendly solution for machine-tool dynamics characterization, enabling the identification of optimal cutting conditions for improved productivity, quality, and system integrity.
Keywords
Milling; Chatter Vibrations; Structural Dynamics; Signal Processing; Piezoelectric Transducers
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-06
Organization Computational Modelling of Materials in Manufacturing
Hosts Ostad Ali Akbari Vahid, Dr.
Topics Engineering and Technology
Simulator-Based Study of Camera Monitor Systems for Pedestrian Detection in Mobile Machinery
This project will develop and use a high-fidelity simulator to study how professional mobile-machine operators use Camera Monitor Systems (CMS) to detect pedestrians in hazardous zones. The student will help design and run an experimental study in which operators complete realistic trenching tasks using a virtual excavator while monitoring CMS feeds for pedestrians and responding to hazards. The data will then be used to develop a machine learning (ML) model that can predict safety performance and inform future CMS design.
Keywords
virtual reality; simulator study; Unity; eye-tracking; machine learning for safety and health;
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Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-06 , Earliest start: 2025-12-10 , Latest end: 2026-10-01
Organization Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Lab
Hosts Qi Shuaixin , Otesteanu Corin, Dr
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences
3D Bioprinting of Neurotized and Disease-Model Skeletal Muscle Tissues: Focus on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
This project aims to develop advanced 3D bioprinted skeletal muscle models with functional innervation, including neurotized healthy muscle tissues and in vitro models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Using state-of-the-art biofabrication strategies, the project will generate physiologically relevant muscle constructs suitable for functional characterization and pharmacological testing. These platforms are intended to support both fundamental research on neuromuscular interactions and translational studies for drug evaluation.
Keywords
3D bioprinting, skeletal muscle tissue, innervation, neuromuscular junctions, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, disease modeling, pharmacological testing, biofabrication, biomaterials, tissue engineering.
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Semester Project , Master Thesis , Other specific labels , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-02-05 , Earliest start: 2026-02-05 , Latest end: 2026-11-30
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Filippi Miriam
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Biology
Intelligent Process Planning in Milling through Physics-Supported Reinforcement Learning
This project aims to contribute to transferring innovative academic developments in machining mechanics and artificial intelligence into a viable industrial solution. The objective is to elevate process planning and machining operations from experience-based, conservative production to science-backed, optimal production with clear economic and environmental benefits.
Keywords
Milling; Reinforcement Learning; Toolpath Planning; CNC; Process Optimization
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-02-05
Organization Computational Modelling of Materials in Manufacturing
Hosts Ostad Ali Akbari Vahid, Dr.
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Building AI-assisted algorithms for robust motion monitoring with smart clothing after re-wearing
The aim of this project is to use machine learning methods to improve smart clothing motion tracking when sensors shift between sessions and wears without fully retraining the model.
Keywords
smart clothing, wearable technology, textile sensor, fitness tracking, sports medicine, machine learning, artificial intelligence, domain adaptation, deep learning
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Published since: 2026-01-23 , Earliest start: 2026-02-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-31
Organization Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Lab
Hosts Ahmadizadeh Chakaveh
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Exploring the Mechanoregulation of Bone Regeneration
In over 100 years, the remarkable ability of bone to adapt to its mechanical environment has been a source of scientific fascination. Bone regeneration has been shown to be highly dependent on the mechanical environment at the fracture site. It has been demonstrated that mechanical stimuli can either accelerate or impede regeneration. Despite the fundamental importance of the mechanical environment in influencing bone regeneration, the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are complex and poorly understood.
Keywords
Bone, Mechanobiology, Spatial transcriptomics, Gene expression, Finite element modelling, Image processing
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-01-19 , Earliest start: 2026-01-19 , Latest end: 2026-08-31
Organization Müller Group / Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics
Hosts Mathavan Neashan
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Custom Wireless Readout Circuit for Triboelectric Nanogenerator (TENG) Sensing and Energy Harvesting
This project aims to design and realize a custom single-PCB wireless readout circuit optimized for triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). Unlike previous designs that relied on assembling multiple commercial off-the-shelf PCBs, this project will integrate the functionalities of signal conditioning, energy harvesting, and wireless data transmission onto one compact, low-power circuit board.
Keywords
TENG, energy harvesting, wireless circuits, PCB design, low-power electronics, sensors
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Published since: 2026-01-14 , Earliest start: 2026-02-01 , Latest end: 2026-09-30
Organization Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Lab
Hosts Zada Muhammad
Topics Engineering and Technology
Design and fabrication of microfluidic chip-based nozzle for nano additive manufacturing
In EHD-RP (electrohydrodynamic redox printing), 3D nanostructures are fabricated by depositing metal-ion-containing droplets in a confined electroplating process [1]. The current nanometer-sized printing nozzle is fabricated by laser melting and pulling, which results in an undefined orifice and poor control over the opening size—both of which hinder reproducibility and structural precision [2]. In this project, you will replace the current nozzle with a state-of-the-art microfluidic chip, using the current advancements in microfluidic device fabrication for bringing greater control and versatility to nano 3D metal printing. Your work will thus be instrumental for a broad range of future applications and research.
Keywords
Nanoscale 3d printing
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Published since: 2026-01-12 , Earliest start: 2026-04-06 , Latest end: 2026-12-14
Organization Nanometallurgy
Hosts Ma Zhongqi
Topics Engineering and Technology
Engineered Magnetic Core-Shell Microswimmers: Coupled Shape and Susceptibility Optimization for Precise Actuation.
Recent advancements in medical robotics have significantly enhanced precision and innovation in healthcare, indicating a new era of minimally invasive procedures that reduce patient complications and discomfort. In particular, the development of robots constructed from biocompatible materials with elastic moduli similar to soft biological tissues offers substantial promise for biomedical applications, as their inherent mechanical compliance improves safety during procedures. This project aims to fabricate double-compartment, soft, tether-free magnetic microrobots and to investigate their locomotion strategies. Critical parameters, including shell thickness, shape and magnetic anisotropy, will be examined in detail. Finally, the prototypes will be navigated and evaluated in vitro using a silicone model.
Keywords
Nanoparticles, Iron Oxide, Hydrogel, Magnetic Navigation, Anisotropy, Template-assisted fabrication, Alignment.
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-01-09 , Earliest start: 2026-01-18 , Latest end: 2026-08-31
Applications limited to ETH Zurich , Empa
Organization Multiscale Robotics Lab
Hosts Pustovalov Vitaly
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Physics
Engineered Growth:Solvothermal Synthesis of Zinc-Substituted Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Medical Applications.
Iron oxide nanoparticles (NPs) have garnered substantial interest within the scientific community due to their broad applicability in biomedical engineering, including drug and gene delivery systems, as well as in diagnostic imaging. This interest is primarily attributed to their favorable properties, such as high saturation magnetization and low cytotoxicity. Among the various iron oxides, magnetite (Fe3O4) is of interest in this thesis. It exhibits an inverse spinel crystal structure, which significantly influences its magnetic behavior. Doping magnetite with zinc ions (Zn2+) has been demonstrated to enhance the material’s magnetic performance by increasing saturation magnetization. In this project we aim to perceive the key parameters, which influence the growth kinetics of the Zinc-substituted NPs. In particular, elemental composition together with the NPs size distribution will be analysed via TEM-EDX, crystallinity and phase identification will be achieved via XRD and magnetic properties measured with the help of VSM. As a result, by the end of the project, we shall be able to control size, shape and magnetic properties of the synthesized NPs. Finally specifically designed Zinc-substituted NPs will be utilized and tested for the medical application.
Keywords
Nanoparticle, Iron oxide, Solvothermal synthesis, Doping, Nanomagnetism
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-01-08 , Earliest start: 2026-01-11 , Latest end: 2026-08-31
Applications limited to ETH Zurich , Empa
Organization Multiscale Robotics Lab
Hosts Pustovalov Vitaly
Topics Engineering and Technology , Earth Sciences , Chemistry , Physics
Combined Muscle and Nerve Tissue Engineering
Engineered muscle tissues have applications in regenerative medicine, drug testing, and understanding motion. A key challenge is restoring neuromuscular communication, especially in treating volumetric muscle loss (VML). This project aims to create functional neuromuscular constructs with biomimetic innervation. Scaffolds will be made using electrospun fibers, conductive materials, and drug-loaded graphene. Muscle and nerve cells derived from iPSCs will be seeded into these scaffolds. Constructs will be tested for motion, drug response, and integration in bio-hybrid robotic systems. The platform will advance muscle-nerve regeneration, drug testing, and bio-hybrid robotics.
Keywords
Tissue engineering, innervation, neural tissue, nerve, muscle tissue, scaffold, iPSCs, muscle cells, bioprinting, biofabrication, biohybrid robotics, soft robotics, 3D printing, biomaterials, electrical stimulation, actuation.
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Semester Project , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-01-07 , Earliest start: 2026-01-01 , Latest end: 2026-10-31
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Filippi Miriam
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Biology
Development of Wireless Ion Sensing Platforms using Metamaterials and Soft Biointerfaces
This project explores the design and realization of a flexible, wireless ion-sensing patch by integrating resonant metamaterial structures with bio-interfacing soft materials. The system is intended for noninvasive detection of physiologically relevant ions from skin-interfaced fluids using passive sensing mechanisms
Keywords
flexible electronics, metamaterials, wireless biosensors, resonant sensors, skin-compatible interfaces
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2025-12-23 , Earliest start: 2026-01-15 , Latest end: 2026-10-29
Organization Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Lab
Hosts Zada Muhammad
Topics Engineering and Technology
Assessing the acute and long-term effects of an app intervention on stress using multimodal wearable data
This project investigates changes in stress levels over the course of a longitudinal app-based intervention, as well as acute physiological responses during app use. A wide range of physiological signals were recorded using wearable devices to comprehensively capture autonomic regulation and correlates of stress.
Keywords
electrocardiography (ECG), electrodermal activity (EDA), photoplethysmography (PPG), respiration, electroencephalography (EEG), smart-watch, wearable devices, machine learning, artificial intelligence, signal processing, data analysis, stress, sleep
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2025-12-18 , Earliest start: 2026-01-05 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Lab
Hosts Luster Alexandre
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Operator Learning for Solid Mechanics
We aim to develop general and flexible strategies that can be applied to operator learning frameworks and are specific to challenges appearing in solid mechanics problems.
Keywords
Scientific Machine Learning; SciML; Plasticity; Solid Mechanics; Operator Learning; Artificial Intelligence for Science; Machine Learning;
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Semester Project , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2025-12-16 , Earliest start: 2026-09-01
Organization Computational Mechanics Group
Hosts Mousavi Sepehr
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology