University of Zurich

Open Opportunities

Research Internship – Generative Spoken Language Modeling University of Zurich Michael Krauthammer This internship offers practical research experience in speech and audio-based AI at the University of Zurich’s KrauthammerLab. The focus is on building systems that can understand and generate spoken language in natural and expressive ways. Computer-Human Interaction, Speech Recognition Internship

Fine-tuning Policies in the Real World with Reinforcement Learning University of Zurich Robotics and Perception Explore online fine-tuning in the real world of sub-optimal policies. Engineering and Technology, Information, Computing and Communication Sciences Master Thesis, Semester Project

Inverse Reinforcement Learning from Expert Pilots University of Zurich Robotics and Perception Use Inverse Reinforcement Learning (IRL) to learn reward functions from previous expert drone demonstrations. Engineering and Technology, Intelligent Robotics Master Thesis, Semester Project

Advancing Low-Latency Processing for Event-Based Neural Networks University of Zurich Robotics and Perception Design and implement efficient event-based networks to achieve low latency inference. Computer Vision Master Thesis, Semester Project

Contactless Fiber-Optic Photoplethysmography-based Gating for MRI ETH Zurich Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance This project aims to collect diverse forehead PPG datasets using a newly developed device, to evaluate variability across populations and sensor placements and, to explore their impact on signal quality. You will apply classical signal processing and machine learning methods to extract reliable MRI triggers from the PPG signal to statistically quantify the pulse arrival time (PAT) and its variability. If time permits, you may further investigate the extraction of respiratory-modulated components from the PPG waveform. Artificial Intelligence and Signal and Image Processing, Biomechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Optometry Bachelor Thesis, Semester Project

Advancing Single-Molecule Sensing for Protein Analysis ETH Zurich Biosensors and Bioelectronics (LBB) In this project, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the development and optimization of a single-molecule sensor designed for the detection, identification, and analysis of important biomolecules such as DNA and proteins. The sensor technology is built upon the principles of microfluidics, nanofabrication, and machine-learning data analysis. It is an excellent fit for students who possess skills and a strong interest in these fields and are eager to engage in an interdisciplinary project with significant potential impact. Biology, Chemistry, Engineering and Technology, Medical and Health Sciences, Physics Master Thesis

PhD Position in Innovation Management University of Zurich Prof. Dr. Anja Schulze Chair of Mobility and Digital Innovation Management (Prof. Dr. Anja Schulze) Start date: September 1, 2025, or by mutual agreement We are looking for a highly motivated and research-oriented candidate to join our team. The position offers the opportunity to pursue a PhD at one of Europe’s leading research universities, located in the heart of Zurich. Innovation and Technology Management PhD Placement

Bioengineered iPSC-Derived Neural Networks on High-Density Microelectrode Arrays for Studying Pathological Changes in Alzheimer’s Disease ETH Zurich Biosensors and Bioelectronics (LBB) Are you interested in uncovering how Alzheimer’s disease disrupts communication in the brain — and exploring new ways to study and possibly intervene in this process? In this project, you will use cutting-edge microfluidic platforms to construct bioengineered neural networks that better mimic the structure and function of brain microcircuits. These networks, established from human iPSC-derived neurons, will be studied throughout their development using high-density microelectrode arrays (HD-MEAs), enabling detailed tracking of their electrical activity at high spatiotemporal resolution. You will introduce Alzheimer’s disease-related pathology into the networks and investigate how it alters connectivity, signaling patterns, and neural responses to stimulation over time. The project offers a unique opportunity to combine experimental work in cellular neuroscience with computational analysis of neural network function. Depending on your background and interests, your work can be directed more toward wet-lab techniques (e.g., cell culturing, immunostaining, confocal imaging, electrophysiology) or toward data analysis and modeling (e.g., signal processing, graph theory, information theory). Analysis of Algorithms and Complexity, Biomedical Engineering, Biophysics, Biosensor Technologies, Biotechnology, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Medical Biotechnology, Nanotechnology, Neurosciences, Systems Biology and Networks Bachelor Thesis, ETH Zurich (ETHZ), Master Thesis, Semester Project

Expressive Speech Synthesis for Accessibility and Health University of Zurich Michael Krauthammer Developing AI models to create natural-sounding, expressive speech synthesis systems for healthcare applications. This project focuses on improving synthetic voices to capture emotion, tone, and non-verbal cues, enabling effective communication for individuals with speech impairments. Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, Engineering and Technology Master Thesis, Semester Project

Comparing Human and Meta-RL Learning Strategies Using Cognitive Latents University of Zurich Christian Ruff This thesis aims to bridge the gap between human decision-making under uncertainty and artificial intelligence. Building upon recent neuroimaging research from our group on how the human brain processes probability and uncertainty of motivational events, this project will investigate whether meta-reinforcement learning (meta-RL) models can accurately replicate these complex neural computations and match human performance on a specific Pavlovian task. Ultimately, the goal is to understand the similarities and differences in how AI and biological intelligence handle learning and decision-making in uncertain environments. Computer Perception, Memory and Attention, Neurocognitive Patterns and Neural Networks, Neurosciences, Simulation and Modelling Master Thesis