Laboratory Technician for Soft and Biohybrid Robotics Research (m/f/d) 40%-70%

Publication date:07 October 2025
Workload:40 – 70%
Place of work:Zurich

About the job

Laboratory Technician for Soft and Biohybrid Robotics Research (m/f/d)

40%-70%, Zurich, limited term

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The Soft Robotics Lab is looking for a highly motivated laboratory technician to support the group's research in the fields of robotics, soft robotics, and robotic tissue engineering with living cells. The technician will take on important cross-group tasks and ensure a functioning, active workflow for the researchers. In this role, our various laboratories (biology lab, fabrication lab, chemistry lab, robotics hall, and cleanroom) must be managed and the operation of scientific and technical instruments ensured. The technician will passionately support the group's research within the framework of heavily externally funded projects in an international team of highly motivated researchers.

Project Background

The Soft Robotics Lab, led by Professor Robert Katzschmann, aims to research soft functional materials, artificial muscles, 3D printing methods, and related technologies to realize novel robots. Our interdisciplinary research group combines the production of synthetic materials, computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, biology, and tissue engineering.

Job Description

Maintenance and repair of instruments (3D printers, incubators, autoclaves, biosafety cabinets, computers, robotic arms, robotic hands, etc.)
Ordering and cataloging of consumables, reagents, and laboratory equipment/supplies
General support for the group's ongoing research projects
Support of the laboratory's digital infrastructure (website, social media, data servers, file storage systems)
Assistance in writing research proposals to apply for research funding for the group

Profile

To successfully perform these diverse tasks, we expect a completed vocational training as a chemical laboratory technician, biological laboratory technician, electronics technician, polymechanic, physics laboratory technician, or a comparable adequate education in applied technology. A Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences or Engineering is also suitable. Furthermore, we expect the following skills:

High degree of independence and initiative
Ability to pragmatically carry out complex projects independently from start to finish
Excellent organizational skills
Very good English skills in spoken and written form, German skills are an advantage
Excellent ability to document and keep processes up to date
Familiarity with inventory and data storage systems
Willingness to further educate oneself in laboratory safety and take responsibility in this regard
First point of contact for handling urgent matters regarding laboratory equipment
Problem-solving skills and practical skills in handling hardware and software
Teamwork skills and excellent communication skills
Familiarity with modern cloud-based organization tools (Slack, Notion, Airtable, OneDrive, Dropbox, etc.)

Workplace

We Offer

Your profession with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive changes in society
You can expect numerous benefits , such as public transport subscriptions and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ , childcare , as well as attractive pension benefits

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Diversity and Sustainability are Important to Us

In line with our values , ETH Zurich supports an inclusive culture. We promote equal opportunities, value diversity, and maintain a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all employees and students are respected. On our Equal Opportunity and Diversity website , you can learn how we ensure a fair and open environment where everyone can develop and thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to your online application, which must include the following:

Motivation letter
Curriculum vitae
All diplomas and work certificates
Three reference contacts, including their mobile numbers (or direct telephone extension)

Please note that we only accept applications submitted via our online application portal. Applications by email or post will not be considered.

Start date by arrangement, between November 2025 and March 2026.

More information about the SRL can be found on our website . Applications should be addressed to Prof. Dr. Robert Katzschmann and submitted here in the job portal. For questions about the position, please contact Ms. Federica Poltronieri at fpoltronieri@ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the best technical and natural science universities in the world. We are known for our excellent teaching, pioneering basic research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find an environment with us that promotes independent thinking and a climate that inspires top performance. Located in the heart of Europe and globally networked, we develop solutions together for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.