Robotics Engineer

Research in Orthopedic Computer Science (ROCS)

Robotics Engineer 100 %

temporary

The Research in Orthopedic Computer Science (ROCS) group at Balgrist University Hospital is an interdisciplinary team of researchers, engineers, and surgeons dedicated to enhancing treatments for musculoskeletal disorders through computer technologies. They focus on designing solutions that improve surgical precision, safety, and efficiency, with a strong emphasis on translational research that bridges the gap between engineering and clinical practice.

To evaluate new technologies under realistic conditions and acquire high-quality experimental data, ROCS works closely with the OR-X Research Center. This state-of-the-art surgical research facility replicates a fully equipped operating room. The OR-X provides an ideal setting for ex-vivo surgical experiments, enabling the validation of robotic prototypes, the collection of multimodal surgical data, and the safe translation of engineering innovations toward clinical use.

To support the growing need for custom robotic systems tailored to novel surgical procedures and experimental data acquisition, we are establishing a dedicated center for robotic prototyping and integration within this ecosystem. This initiative will provide researchers and clinicians with the tools and infrastructure necessary to develop, test, and validate new robotic concepts for precision surgery and intelligent intervention, in direct collaboration with surgeons.

We are seeking a Robotics Engineer who will play a key role in building and operating this new robotic infrastructure. The successful candidate will collaborate with engineers, AI scientists, and clinicians to develop and integrate robotic systems, design customized surgical tools, and support data-driven experimental studies in the OR-X environment. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface of engineering innovation and clinical application, contributing directly to the next generation of robotic surgery technologies.

Your Responsibilities

• Configure and equip a designated workshop for end-effector manufacturing and a dry lab for system testing and demonstrations.
• Establish, maintain, and operate ROSI's robotic systems, including clinical-grade and research platforms.
• Develop custom robotic end-effectors for orthopedic, minimally invasive, and soft-tissue surgical procedures in collaboration with surgeons.
• Ensure the systems are ROS2 compatible for interoperability, time synchronization, and data handling across systems.
• Support validation experiments in ex-vivo settings at OR-X.
• Collaborate with AI engineers to integrate physical robots into ROSI's high-performance computing and simulation infrastructure.
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to students and researchers working in the ROSI prototyping lab.

Your profile

• MSc or PhD in Robotics, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline.
• Strong background in robotic system design, control, and ROS 2 software development.
• Experience in mechanical design and manufacturing processes (3D printing, CNC, laser cutting, etc.)
• Experience in PCB design and electronics manufacturing.
• Proven ability to work in a research laboratory environment, including managing equipment and workshops.
• Experience in developing and controlling haptic systems is a plus.
• Proficiency in C++, Python, and working in Docker environments; familiarity with simulation tools (Gazebo, Isaac, ORBIT-Surgical) is an asset.
• Motivation to work in a translational, interdisciplinary environment bridging research and clinical practice.

Information on your application

The anticipated start date is beginning of 2026, with some flexibility by mutual agreement. To apply, please submit your motivation letter (1 page) and academic CV.

Embedded in the Greater Zurich Area, one of Europe's leading hubs for MedTech and AI innovation, the ROCS group pursues the mission of turning fundamental research into technologies with clinical impact. We offer a supportive and welcoming environment where you can thrive, learn, and grow. The Balgrist Campus, OR-X, and the University of Zurich together provide world-class research infrastructure at the forefront of surgical innovation. This PhD will prepare you for a career in academia, MedTech, or surgical robotics, with strong exposure to both scientific excellence and clinical translation.

We also offer:

• Active participation in the flourishing Surgical Data Science landscape.
• Opportunity to work on a cutting-edge project at the intersection of surgical science, AI, and robotics.
• A motivated and committed team that values mutual support, appreciation, and respect.
• An innovative, interdisciplinary, and highly specialized work environment.

What we offer

Work-Life Balance

• Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
• Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH

Learning and Development

• Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
• Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

Food

• Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
• Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

Healthcare

• Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
• Free seasonal flu vaccinations
• Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

Discounts

• Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
• Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
• Special conditions on hotel reservations

Conditions of Employment

• Policies of the UZH
• Most UZH staff are employed according to public law

International Services

• Support for people from outside Switzerland

Campuses

• Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
• Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

Location
Research in Orthopedic Computer Science (ROCS)

Forchstrasse 340, 8008 Zürich, Switzerland

Further information
Questions about the job

Frédéric Giraud

OR-X

Questions about the application procedure

Frédéric Giraud

OR-X

Working at UZH

The University of Zurich offers a wide range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and 12 professional apprenticeship streams, Switzerland's largest university provides an inspiring working environment at the vanguard of research and education. Find out more about UZH as an employer

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