Postdoc position in Fabrication-aware Generative Design in Zürich

100%, Zurich, temporary

The Institute of Construction and Infrastructure Management is situated within the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering and the Institute of Technology in Architecture is situated within the Department of Architecture at ETH Zurich. Together, we are seeking a motivated person to work jointly between the Chair of Innovative and Industrial Construction under the supervision of Prof. Daniel M. Hall and the Chair of Digital Building Technologies under the supervision of Prof. Benjamin Dillenburger.

In order to meet the increasing demand in housing, we imagine a radical systems transformation of the process to design and construct a home within a single week. We call this solution the 7DayHouse. This research will focus specifically on Day 1 of the 7DayHouse. The novel contribution will be the creation of a fabrication-aware generative design tool that can create and iterate the design of a fully-customized home within one day. 

Within the new Centre for Computationally Augmented Design established at ETH Zurich, we will combine state-of-the-art research in artificial intelligence and generative design with emerging research on mass customization for industrialized timber construction. 

We are looking for someone to lead the development of the computationally-augmented design and configuration process for the 7DayHouse. Compared to other generative design solutions, this generative model intends to explicitly incorporate the parameters of digital fabrication processes as part of the reward function. The selected candidate will need to determine the appropriate: 

• configuration algorithm selection and implementation for floor plan layout generation
• fitness and reward functions based on both design and fabrication parameters n
• iterative human-in-the-loop considerations that are appropriate for the mass-customized industrialized housing market 

More broadly, this position is intended to take a leadership and interdisciplinary coordination role for the successful implementation of the 7DayHouse research project. In addition to his or her own research, the selected candidate will also need to mentor, support, and integrate the work of two doctoral candidates within the larger research project. 

This is anticipated as a full-time, two-year position. The successful candidate will join an inclusive, non-discriminating and supportive working environment that praises scientific curiosity and creativity. The anticipated starting date is April 2021 or as mutually agreed upon by both parties. Within the context of the above research theme, applicants are welcome in their letter of motivation to describe their own specific interests and/or ideas to apply these areas of emphasis.

The successful candidate should hold a PhD degree with a background in computer science, architecture, civil engineering, or construction management. Expertise in generative design, computational design, machine learning, industrialized construction and/or game engines is desirable but not required. Experience in architecture, engineering and construction industry practice is desirable but not required. Applicants are encouraged to apply, even if they do not meet all the above criteria. Fluent communication skills (written and presentation) in English are essential.

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.