Doctoral researcher (PhD Position) in Computer Science: Mental Resilience in the Digital Age

Doctoral researcher (PhD Position) in Computer Science: Mental Resilience in the Digital Age

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Mobiliar Lab for Analytics at ETH Zurich develops and tests digital interactions using emerging technologies and artificial intelligence. As a joint initiative of ETH Zurich and a Swiss insurer, we focus upon how to create Responsible Digital Interactions by leveraging the benefits of emerging technologies balanced against their potential dark sides. Our research at the intersection of data, behavioral, and computer science draws on data from real-world and experimental settings. Examples of our previous projects can be found by visiting our website here.

Project background

In the upcoming project, we intend to design a digital intervention that strengthens individuals’ mental resilience. To do so, we will apply insights from the theory of embodied cognition and focus on the interplay between cognitive load, stress, and mental well-being. The digital intervention will employ both established (smartphone, smartwatch) and novel technologies (Mixed Reality/LLM chatbots) and be developed based on our findings from laboratory and field settings. Doctoral researchers on the project will have the chance to shape their own research questions.

Job description

We are currently seeking a doctoral researcher with a computer science background to work alongside two other highly motivated and talented doctoral researchers in behavioural science and data science at our Lab. The candidates will apply their respective expertise on a series of shared research activities, with the final aim of developing and launching a digital intervention.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Developing and testing digital intervention(s) using novel technologies
• Collaborating with experts and industry partners
• Attending international conferences to present your work
• Publishing in top research journals
• Communicating and engaging with the public
• Teaching support and supervision under the umbrella of the Chair of Technology Marketing, D-MTEC

Your profile

Essential requirements:

• Degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or related fields
• Strong programming and problem solving skills
• Experience in object-oriented programming languages (e.g., Java, C#)
• Excellent written and oral communication skills using English
• Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
• Strong interest in technology

Desirable requirements:

• Familiarity with Unity or Unreal engine (for VR/AR applications)
• Familiarity with developing mobile applications (iOS and Android)
• Knowledge of cloud-based infrastructure (e.g., AWS, Azure)
• Understanding of UI/UX design principles
• Awareness of cybersecurity best practices
• Familiarity with the Theory of Embodied Cognition
• Fluency in German
• Experience working in research and/or academia

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

We value diversity

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application, which includes the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae (1-2 pages)
• Cover letter (1 page)
• A statement of research interest related to the project outline above (1 page)
• Copies of bachelors and master’s degree
• Names and contact details of two references

The selection committee will review all applications on a rolling basis. As soon as a decision has been made, we will inform you about the next steps in the selection procedure.

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

Further information about the institute can be found on our website mobiliarlab.ethz.ch. Informal enquiries regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Joseph Ollier (jollier@ethz.ch).

About ETH Zürich

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application, which includes the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae (1-2 pages)
• Cover letter (1 page)
• A statement of research interest related to the project outline above (1 page)
• Copies of bachelors and master’s degree
• Names and contact details of two references

The selection committee will review all applications on a rolling basis. As soon as a decision has been made, we will inform you about the next steps in the selection procedure.

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

Further information about the institute can be found on our website mobiliarlab.ethz.ch. Informal enquiries regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Joseph Ollier (jollier@ethz.ch).