Summary
ETH Zurich’s Engineering Design and Computing Laboratory is offering a fully-funded doctoral position for cutting-edge research combining Large Language Models (LLMs) with formal design grammars for generative engineering design. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated individuals with a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, strong programming skills, and an interest in applied AI for engineering design.
Designation
Doctoral Position in Generative AI-Based, Computational Design Methods for Engineering Design
Scholarship Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | ETH Zurich, Engineering Design and Computing Laboratory |
| Location | Zurich, Switzerland |
| Position Type | Fully-funded Doctoral Position |
| Start Date | February 2027 (latest September 2027) |
| Application Deadline | November 01, 2026 |
Research Area
The doctoral candidate will investigate and explore new approaches in generative AI for engineering design, specifically focusing on:
- How LLMs can act as collaborative partners for human designers.
- Using LLMs to represent engineering designs, reason about design solutions, and generate new design solutions.
- Exploring different solution spaces.
- Investigating applications in consumer products, manufacturing, and structures.
Location
Zurich, Switzerland
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Creative and curious, with an interdisciplinary mindset.
- Interested in applied AI for engineering design and computational design methods.
- Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
- Motivated to conduct internationally leading research.
- Strong programming skills in Python.
- English is the main working language (German is an advantage but not required).
- Experience with computational design methods is an advantage.
- Experience with machine learning is an advantage.
- Experience with Large Language Models (LLMs) is an advantage.
Scholarship Description
This is a fully-funded doctoral position offering a competitive salary at one of Europe’s leading universities. The successful candidate will join a highly motivated, international team and work in an engaging and ambitious research environment. Opportunities for collaboration with students, other research labs, and industrial partners are available. The position also offers the chance to shape the lab’s research direction and contribute to its international research profile. Only a small tuition fee is required at ETH Zurich.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their applications exclusively through the online application portal. Applications sent via email or postal services will not be considered.
Required documents for application:
- CV
- University transcripts for both Bachelor and Master degrees.
- Two references that can be contacted for reference letters.
- Scientific publications (if available, a maximum of three should be included).
Please note that the pre-selection is carried out by responsible recruiters, not by artificial intelligence.
Last Date for Apply
November 01, 2026
