PhD Position in Human-Computer Interaction; mAdaptive Systems in Mixed Reality
ETH Zurich
Switzerland
PhD student in Human-Computer Interaction: Adaptive Systems in Mixed Reality (UI + LLMs)
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
We have an open PhD position in Human-Computer Interaction with a focus on intelligent and adaptive systems for Augmented Reality, Mixed Reality, and Extended Reality. This research builds on recent work on optimization-based workspace adaptation in VR/MR and aims to advance interactive systems that dynamically adapt to user behavior, preferences, and intent to optimally support productivity workflows, guided by emerging large language models.
Candidates ideally have a background in Computer Science and prior experience with human-computer interaction (e.g., through courses or projects), including any of designing interaction techniques, building interactive systems (e.g., Unity3D), or running and analyzing user studies.
Project background
Mixed Reality promises flexible, personalized work environments anywhere. However, today’s XR systems often remain static, failing to account for physical constraints, situational context, or user intent. Based on our prior work, we will develop optimization-based approaches inside immersive 3D systems that
- adapt interfaces to diverse physical environments, input modalities, and ergonomic needs
- adapt MR workflows dynamically to situational context and user goals
As part of the PhD project, we will create adaptive AR/XR systems that sense, predict, and respond to users in real time with the goal of making AR/XR a practical and productivity-enhancing tool.
Job description
- Design and prototype interactive XR environments in Unity3D, both for the use in Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality for simulation
- Develop optimization-based adaptation techniques informed by user behavior, preference, and intent
- Extend situation-aware adaptation for workflow support in productivity contexts
- Involve reasoning engines (e.g., large language models/LLM or vision language action models/VLA) to support user interaction
- Conduct user studies to evaluate adaptive interfaces in realistic settings
- Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team in HCI, perception, and machine learning
- Disseminate findings through publications at top-tier venues (e.g., UIST, CHI, IEEEVR, ISMAR, IEEE TVCG)
Profile
ETH requirements:
- written and spoken fluency in English
- an excellent master's degree (MSc., M.Eng. or equivalent) in Computer Science or related field
Requirements for the position:
- strong programming skills (C#, Unity3D, Python, JS)
- experience with interactive system prototyping, AR/VR, or HCI methods
- familiarity with adaptive systems or machine learning
- prior experience conducting user studies
Beneficial
- background in computational interaction or adaptive systes
- knowledge of optimization-based methods or intent prediction
- publications (papers, demos, workshops, or posters) in AR/VR, HCI, or related areas
Workplace
We offer
We offer an exciting environment and team to study in and work with. Beyond the lab, ETH Zürich has several internationally recognized research groups dedicated to interactive systems, Human-Computer Interaction, AR/VR, and machine learning. In our research, we often collaborate with other groups and departments as well as with several other institutions and companies in Switzerland and abroad.
During your PhD, you will have the opportunity to contribute to and collaborate with the ETH AI Center and engage in ETHAR, ETH's Research Hub for Augmented Reality in collaboration with Google XR.
Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity
In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.
Curious? So are we.
Please submit your complete application through the online application portal:
- Motivation letter (no more than 1 page on how your previous projects relate to HCI and/or AR/XR)
- Curriculum vitae (PDF)
- University transcript of records (bachelor's and master's)
- Contact details of 1–2 academic references
- Optional: Link to your GitHub profile and/or your portfolio/website
The position is open until filled. Reviews begin immediately. Earliest start: Fall 2025.
For questions not answered above, contact siplab-recruiting@inf.ethz.ch. Please apply through the ETH Jobs system and not via email.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.
In your application, please refer to Polytechnicpositions.com
