SiROP - Student Research Opportunities Program

The brand-new SiROP platform is online: click here to go there!
Here, you are on the old platform, where you can still view your old data, but you can't create new accounts, post projects or apply for projects anymore.

Benefits

How does it work?

Open projects

Exchange projects

SiROP Excellence Awards

List of open projects

You can restrict the list of open project to your fields of interest by selecting the checkboxes below.

There are currently 280 open projects that comply with your thematic restrictions.

RSS-Feed of open projects


Title:	Building a Piece-Wise-Planar 3D Model of Zurich from Omnidirectional Images
Abstract:	We have a dataset of images acquired with an omnidirectional camera placed on the roof of a car. The images were taken during a tour in Zurich. Recently we developed an algorithm to determine both the motion of the car and the 3D map of the surrounding environment using only our image dataset. The 3D map is however made only of sparse 3D points. What we would like you to do in this project is to build a simple 3D model of the buildings by fitting planes to the sparse 3D points, that is, a piece-wise-planar model of the buildings with colored texture on it using only the information from the image dataset. Major details in the PDF: http://www.asl.ethz.ch/education/proj_apps/pdfs/doku76.pdf
Task:	What we would like you to do in this project is to build a simple piece-wise-planar model of the buildings with colored texture on it using only the information from the image dataset. Major details in the PDF: http://www.asl.ethz.ch/education/proj_apps/pdfs/doku76.pdf
Requirements:	There is no real prerequisite; of course a background on computer vision, graphics, C/C++, OpenGL, and Matlab would be an advantage but strong motivation and determination are much more important!
Institute:	Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Systems: Autonomous Systems Lab of Prof. Siegwart
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis, PhD thesis, SiROP-Project, Lab practice, Undergraduate Research Project


Title:	Synthesis and Characterization of advanced oxides for thermal barrier coatings
Abstract:	Mixed oxides based on YSZ (Yttria stabilised Zirconia) are prime candidates for thermal barrier coatings in gas turbine engines, however, YSZ can be applied to a maximum temperature of 1200 C. To increase the working temperature, some other transition metal oxides has to be doped into YSZ system. In this project MOx(Refractory oxides) will be doped into YSZ by reverse coprecipitation technique. Oxides obtained will be characterized by WDS (Wavelength Dispersive Spectroscopy) and in-situ XRD (X-ray Diffraction) for their chemical composition correctness. High temperature (in-situ and ex-situ) XRD will be applied to study their phase stability at temperatures higher than 1200 C. To ensure thermal compatibility of the developed coatings, thermal expansion and sinterability test will also be done.
Task:	1. Synthesis of mixed oxides by chemical route( reverse co-precipitation) 2. analytical characterisation (WDS/XRD) to confirm the chemical composition of the obtained oxides. 3. phase characterisation and solid state chemistry studies by applying high temperature In-Situ and ex-situ XRD on the developed oxide coatings.
Requirements:	1. Masters/Bachelors students from Chemistry or Material Science. 2. Knowledge of Synthesis is a plus but not obligatory.
Institute:	material science
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis, SiROP-Project, Lab practice, Undergraduate Research Project


Title:	Optimization of Metal-Semiconductor Electrical Contacts for an Improved Efficiency of Bi2Te3 Micro Thermoelectric Generators
Abstract:	Motivation: The need and interest in energy harvesting grew exponentially in the last couple of years. But also the field of wearable electronics aims for autonomous sensor-systems without the need for battery exchange or wire supply. There are many different (waste) energy conversion methods, out of which the thermoelectric conversion approach seems to be very promising. Thermoelectric generators are based on the Seebeck-effect and consist of a great number of thermo-couples. If a temperature drop is applied across the generator, a potential U is induced, which is proportional to the temperature drop ΔT and the material dependant Seebeck-coefficient α: U = α * ΔT Within this research group, a first prototype of a micro thermoelectric generator (μTEG) has been fabricated by electrochemical deposition (ECD) of bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) – the best known μTEG material for applications near room temperature. Based on this success, an ETH spin-off is planed to be founded soon.
Task:	Goal: The metal-semiconductor electrical and thermal contact resistances are one of the major influence factors for the efficiency of thermoelectric generators. Despite of its eminent importance, only few studies have been performed in this field of research. The goal of this project is to investigate the contact properties of different material configurations and find appropriate fabrication methods to be used in the existing fabrication process flow. Work Packages: - Concept for el./therm. contact resistance measurements - Measurement series of various contact material configurations - Development of a suitable fabrication process
Requirements:	Motto: Learning by doing!
Institute:	Micro and Nanosystems
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis, SiROP-Project


Title:	Influence of Annealing on the Efficiency of Bi2Te3 Micro Thermoelectric Generators
Abstract:	Motivation: The need and interest in energy harvesting grew exponentially in the last couple of years. But also the field of wearable electronics aims for autonomous sensor-systems without the need for battery exchange or wire supply. There are many different (waste) energy conversion methods, out of which the thermoelectric conversion approach seems to be very promising. Thermoelectric generators are based on the Seebeck-effect and consist of a great number of thermo-couples. If a temperature drop is applied across the generator, a potential U is induced, which is proportional to the temperature drop ΔT and the material dependant Seebeck-coefficient α: U = α * ΔT Within this research group, a first prototype of a micro thermoelectric generator (μTEG) has been fabricated by electrochemical deposition (ECD) of bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) – the best known μTEG material for applications near room temperature. Based on this success, an ETH spin-off is planed to be founded soon.
Task:	Goal: It is well known that electrochemically deposited n- and p-doped Bi2Te3 yields significantly better material efficiency values if previously thermally annealed. However, the optimal annealing conditions (e.g. temperature, duration, atmosphere) are not yet defined. Hence, the influence factors for optimized Bi2Te3 annealing have to be evaluated and characterized. Work Packages: - Annealing measurement series under varying conditions (parameters) - Cleanroom work for the electrical contacting of Bi2Te3 piles - Seebeck coefficient measurement
Requirements:	Motto: Learning by doing!
Institute:	Micro and Nanosystems
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis, SiROP-Project


Title:	Electrochemical Deposition Analysis of Bi2Te3 for Seebeck coefficient Enhancement in Micro Thermoelectric Generators
Abstract:	Motivation The need and interest in energy harvesting grew exponentially in the last couple of years. But also the field of wearable electronics aims for autonomous sensor-systems without the need for battery exchange or wire supply. There are many different (waste) energy conversion methods, out of which the thermoelectric conversion approach seems to be very promising. Thermoelectric generators are based on the Seebeck-effect and consist of a great number of thermo-couples. If a temperature drop is applied across the generator, a potential U is induced, which is proportional to the temperature drop ΔT and the material dependant Seebeck-coefficient α: U = α * ΔT Within this research group, a first prototype of a micro thermoelectric generator (μTEG) has been fabricated by electrochemical deposition (ECD) of bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) – the best known μTEG material for applications near room temperature. Based on this success, an ETH spin-off is planed to be founded soon.
Task:	Goal For an efficient μTEG both, n- and p-doped Bi2Te3 deposits are needed. One significant efficiency factor is the Seebeck coefficient (α). Hence, the influence factors for the electrochemical deposition of Bi2Te3 have to be tuned in order to fabricate a new μTEG generation with a significant increase in efficiency. Work Packages - ECD of Bi2Te3 in micro-structured holes with varying parameters - Measuring series of Seebeck-coefficients - EDX measurements to find the stoichiometry ratio of Bi and Te.
Requirements:	Motto: Learning by doing!
Institute:	Micro and Nanosystems
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis, SiROP-Project


Title:	Hilfsassistentenstelle/Praktikum/Semester- oder Diplomarbeit: mit Labview Module programmieren für Mikroskop-Steuersoftware
Abstract:	Für unsere Experimente verwenden wir selbstgebaute Zweiphotonen-Mikroskope (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Two-photon_excitation_microscopy). Bei diesen scannt ein Hochleistungslaser ein fluoreszente Probe in 3D ab, während die erzeugten Fluoreszenzsignale über Photomultiplier gemessen und den abgescannten Punkten zugeordnet werden. So können dreidimensionale Bilder des lebenden Gehirnes aufgenommen werden. In diesem Projekt sollen Module für die Steuersoftware für das Mikroskop mittels der graphischen Programmiersprache Labview (http://www.ni.com/labview/d/)entwickelt werden.
Task:	Mögliche Module: - Programmierung eines FPGA-Signalintegrators; - Programmierung 2- und 3-dimensionaler Scantrajektorien; - Ansteuerung einer motorisierten 3D-Stage; - automatische Online-Zellerkennung und Zellklassifizierung; - Datenbankanbindung; - automatische Intensitätsnachregelung des Lasers; - Ansteuerung verschiedener Scanner-Typen; - Ansteuerung weiterer Bildverarbeitungsprogramme.
Requirements:	- Grundkenntnisse im objektorientierten Programmieren; - Kenntnisse in Labview von Vorteil (können aber schnell erworben/erweitert werden); - Kenntnisse in Software-Design von Vorteil.
Institute:	Brain Research Institute
Institution:	UZH (University of Zurich)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis, SiROP-Project, Lab practice, Undergraduate Research Project


Title:	Dynamical Coupling in Motor-Sensory Function Substitution
Abstract:	Transparent human-machine interfaces are essential to reduce the cognitive load of the user. By investigating human upper limb dynamics and by taking into account morphological and material properties of assistive devices, we aim at developing a scheme by which patients quickly learn to control a prosthetic device with less cognitive effort. Inside this project there are several tasks that need to be done: a) Sensory feedback b) Improved actuation system d) Wireless sensor implementation
Task:	There are 3 subprojects at the moment: a) Sensory feedback Use electrical stimulation to provide sensory feedback in an embedded prosthetic system (Robot Hand). We need to explore different stimulation methods to define the type of information that a person requires to include the prosthetic system into his/her body schema to reduce the cognitive effort when controlling prosthetic devices. b) Sensory Feedback In order to understand the principles behind sensory stimulation on the skin we are developing a simulation of the electrical stimulation effects on the skin. c) Wireless sensors In order to increase the wearability and usability of the system we are developing low power wireless EMG (Electromyography) sensors to be used in the actuation of the system instead of the current wired ones.
Requirements:	Subproject a) Interest in interact with people in order to test the system. Programming knowledge in C or C++ are prefered. Subproject b) Matlab, C, C++. Subproject c) Digital electronics, C programming.
Institute:	Artificial Intelligence Laboratory
Institution:	UZH (University of Zurich)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HSZ-T, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis, SiROP-Project


Title:	Electroplated Magnets for Biomedical Microrobots
Abstract:	Electronic and mechanical systems have been miniaturized by VLSI and MEMS technologies. However, no homologue to these technologies is available for electrochemical energy storage. Currently, the only viable option for the actuation and steering of wireless microrobots is external energy transfer. The utilization of magnetic fields generated ex-vivo for energy transfer can provide a solution to this problem. At the Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems prototype microrobots with hybrid MEMS design have been built to investigate magnetic steering, wireless actuation and hybrid design concept. When a ferromagnetic body is subject to an external magnetic field, it becomes magnetized. The magnetization vector is dependent on both the geometry and the material properties of the body. As a result, the body feels a magnetic torque that is directed to align it with the external field and a magnetic force that pulls it towards the direction of increasing field. In other words, a magnetic torque and force can be applied on the microrobot by controlling the external field and field gradient vectors.
Task:	The preparation of magnets at micrometer and nanometer scale still remains a research challenge because the manufacturing techniques of conventional magnets are incompatible with those corresponding to MEMS. Several micromachining techniques such as screen-printing, sputtering and electrochemical deposition have been used to deposit and integrate permanent magnets into microdevices. Electrodeposition is the most versatile technique due to its low cost and its capability of forming micro and nanometric features. Consequently, electroplating micromagnets with high remanence Br values has attracted the interest of researchers in the past few years. The main focus of this project is the development and optimization of magnetic films leading to a material with the desired requirements for the microrobots. This project involves electroplating techniques and, consequently, laboratory work.
Requirements:	• Basic lab skills. • Knowledge in electrochemistry is a plus but not compulsory.
Institute:	Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis, SiROP-Project, Lab practice, Undergraduate Research Project


Title:	Magnetic Nanocomposites
Abstract:	Tiny Lab on Chip (laboratories on a chip) systems for analysis and synthesis will open new applications in life science in the near future. For a wide range of applications, cheap disposable chips are required. Magnetic Polymers (Nanocomposite) are very promising materials which allow wireless actuation. Today magnetic nanoparticles are injected into brain tumors and heated by high frequency magnetic fields to kill cancer cells. Magnetic nanoparticles are used in various wireless sensing and actuating applications especially for biomedical microsystems. The goal of this work is to develop and fabricate a wireless heater/sensor on a similar principle for Lab on Chip applications. Magnetic nanoparticles will be mixed into a polymer. Micro channels, heater structures or sensing structures for biofluidic applications will be fabricated with this nanocomposite material. By applying high frequency magnetic fields the nanoparticles will be excited. Such devices can be used for DNA assembly and protein/protein interaction sensing.
Task:	• Fabrication of magnetic polymer composites with magnetic nanoparticles • Fabrication of micro channels and heater structures • Building of an actuation and measurement setup • Evaluation of the temperature in the channels and the heater • Simulations of the heating/actuation mechanisms
Requirements:	• Basic lab skills. • Experience in FEM packages is a plus. • Knowledge in magnetics is a plus but not compulsory. • The work-load is distributed as follows: %30 theoretical (computer simulations), %70 experimental.
Institute:	Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis, SiROP-Project, Lab practice, Undergraduate Research Project


Title:	Electroplated Biocompatible Conductive Polymers to be Implemented in Drug Delivery Microrobots
Abstract:	Drug delivery devices such as microrobots developed at the IRIS are produced by standard microfabrication processes. Any device intended for long-term in vivo applications must exhibit biocompatibility and biostability requirements. Since the microrobots developed are made of magnetic materials, which are not biocompatible, biocompatible coatings are required. In this regard, some electrosynthesized polymers are excellent candidates for bioMEMS applications since they are cheap, biocompatible, easily synthesized and their growth is controlled in both horizontal and vertical dimensions. There are previous works about coating the conducting surface of microsystems by a conductive polymer for biosensor applications. Also, biocompatible conductive polymers are used as intelligent scaffold materials for tissue engineering applications. In addition, some polymers are doped with various agents to alter its physical and chemical properties such as conductivity or magnetism. These doping agents can be organic molecules or some metallic or ceramic nanoparticles.
Task:	This project will consist of two parts. The first part involves the preparation of biocompatible conductive polymers and their characterization (morphology, structure, biocompatibility) by means of different techniques (e.g, SEM, XRD, optical microscopy, profilometry). The second part will consist of the preparation of nanoparticles-polymer composites. Both parts involve electroplating techniques and, consequently, laboratory work.
Requirements:	• Basic lab skills. • Knowledge in electrochemistry is a plus but not compulsory.
Institute:	Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis, SiROP-Project, Lab practice, Undergraduate Research Project


Title:	Intraocular Microrobots for Diagnosis
Abstract:	Microrobots that can navigate bodily fluids will enable localized sensing and targeted drug delivery in parts of the body that are currently inaccessible or too invasive to access. At the Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, we are working on magnetically controlled microrobots with integrated wireless sensors for intraocular diagnosis and treatment. We propose an intraocular oxygen sensing microrobot. The effect of oxygen on various ophthalmologic complications is not properly understood and intraocular oxygen concentration measurements are essential for effective diagnosis and treatment. The oxygen sensor works based on quenching of luminescence in the presence of molecular oxygen. Using this device, long-term measurements will be possible at locations that are currently too invasive to access. The proposed devices can be inserted through a small incision in the sclera, and then control within the eye can be accomplished via applied magnetic fields. The eye is unique in that it is possible to observe the vasculature and visually track the microrobot through the pupil.
Task:	This project focuses on the development of oxygen sensing system. Previously we demonstrated a wireless oxygen sensor using magnetic beads and luminescence dyes. There is also ongoing work about visual tracking of the microrobot inside the eye. The aim of this project is to develop a system that can measure oxygen while the microrobot is steered and tracked inside the eye using the ophthalmoscopic system developed for this purpose.
Requirements:	• Basic lab skills. • Experience in a data acquisition, signal processing is a plus. • Knowledge in optics is a plus but not compulsory. • The work-load is distributed as follows: %20 theoretical (signal processing, design), %80 experimental (sensor preparation, characterization, construction of setup).
Institute:	Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis, SiROP-Project, Lab practice, Undergraduate Research Project


Title:	Untersuchung des Entscheidungsverhaltens der Akteure auf dem Schweizer Energieholzmarkt anhand eines Fallbeispiels
Abstract:	Im Rahmen des Kompetenzzentrums für Energie und Mobilität findet das Projekt „2nd Generation Biogas – New Pathways to Efficient Use of Biomass for Power and Transportation“ statt. Ziel des Projektes ist es neue Technologien der sogenannten 2. Generation für die Konversion von Biomasse zu Biogas bereitzustellen. Untersucht werden insbesondere zwei Technologien: die Umwandlung von Holz zu Synthetic Natural Gas (SNG) und die hydrothermale Vergasung, bei der aus feuchter Biomasse Methan hergestellt wird. Diese Ar-beit findet hauptsächlich am Paul Scherrer Institut (PSI) statt. Zusätzlich werden an der ETH Zürich Prozess-katalysatoren und CO2-Separationstechnologien entwickelt sowie an der EPFL die Prozesskette im Hinblick auf Optimierungen modelliert. Der Erfolg dieser neuen Technologien wird allerdings nicht nur auf der technischen Machbarkeit sondern auf einer Reihe von weiteren Kriterien beruhen. Hierzu zählen insbesondere die Verfügbarkeit von Biomasse, die Umweltverträglichkeit der Technologien sowie Akteurskonstellationen und politische Weichenstellungen. Diese Aspekte werden im Rahmen des CCEM Projektes von der Empa, dem WSL und dem Wasserfor-schungs-Institut des ETH-Bereichs (eawag) untersucht. Aus technologischer Sicht ist die Umwandlung von Holz zu SNG am weitesten fortgeschritten, so dass der-zeit erste kommerzielle Anwendungen geplant werden. Um herauszufinden wie gross die Verfügbarkeit von Energieholz für diese Technologie ist und welche Faktoren darauf einen massgeblichen Einfluss haben un-tersuchen Empa und WSL den Schweizer Energieholzmarkt. Grundsätzlich hängt die Verfügbarkeit von Energieholz von diversen natürlichen, ökonomischen, technischen, sozialen und politischen Faktoren ab. Über die nachhaltige Erntemenge hinaus spielen für die real verfügbare Energieholzmenge also zahlreiche andere Faktoren, wie z.B. das Verhalten der Marktakteure und die Entwicklung der Holzpreise, die Entwick-lung der Energiepreise (Ölpreis) sowie zukünftige politische Entscheidungen oder Naturkatastrophen eine Rolle. Um den Einfluss dieser Faktoren zu untersuchen, entwickeln die Empa und das WSL ein agentenba-siertes Modell, welches die zentralen Akteure und ihr Verhalten auf dem Energieholzmarkt abbildet.
Task:	Das Ziel der Masterarbeit ist es, die relevanten Akteure des Schweizer Energieholzmarktes (Anbieter, Nach-frager, Intermediäre) anhand eines Fallbeispiels auf ihr Entscheidungsverhalten bei Holztransaktionen hin zu untersuchen. Hierfür wird einerseits der Ablauf der zu einer Entscheidung bei einem Holzkauf- bzw. Verkauf führt (z.B. der Verhandlungsprozess) beschrieben. Andererseits sollen die wichtigsten Kriterien bei der Ent-scheidungsfindung qualitativ und wenn möglich auch quantitativ herausgearbeitet werden. Der Prozess der Entscheidungsfindung und die dabei relevanten Kriterien werden anschliessend vom Kandidaten in einem Entscheidungsmodell zusammengeführt. Zunächst werden die relevanten Akteursgruppen auf dem Holzmarkt identifiziert und deren Vernetzung be-schrieben. Dies geschieht einerseits durch Gespräche mit Schlüsselakteuren und andererseits durch Nut-zung existierender Literatur- und Datenbanken. Anschliessend werden die Akteure systematisch zu ihrem Entscheidungsverhalten befragt. Ausgehend von den erhobenen Daten werden Entscheidungsmodelle für die einzelnen Akteure abgeleitet.
Requirements:	Der Kandidat / die Kandidatin sollte folgende Voraussetzungen mitbringen: - Kommunikative Persönlichkeit zur Durchführung der Interviews - Gute Kenntnisse der deutschen Sprache, mündlich und schriftlich
Institute:	Technologie und Gesellschaft
Institution:	EMPA (Material Science and Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Master thesis, Diploma thesis, Lab practice


Title:	PhD Position - 'Context Awareness in Large Socio-Technical Systems'
Abstract:	The Wearable Computing Lab investigates how to recognize user context and activities from data captured by on-body and ambient sensors. Context-aware systems assist users in various domains: industrial manufacturing, lifestyle management, rehabilitation, ... In the coming years, such technologies will be massively deployed and become part of the daily life of millions. This will lead to complex 'socio-technical' systems, characterized by a tight entanglement between humans and technology. You will carry research within a new EU-funded research project on 'context awareness in large socio-technical systems'.
Task:	We offer a PhD position within the framework of the new European Research Project SOCIONICAL. SOCIONICAL groups 14 high-profile European universities, research institutes, policy makers, and private companies. They will collaborate over the next 4 years (2009-2012) to develop the science of complex systems for socially intelligent ICT. This includes developing the theoretical background of socio-technical system, developing modeling and simulation methods, run experimental large-scale data acquisition, run pilot-studies in in emergency/disaster scenario and in massive car-2-car communication scenarios, and investigate how to provide advice to policymakers on the basis of the project outcomes. In this position you will be responsible for one of the project's work package. You will closely collaborate with the project's partners throughout the duration of the project. Your work environment will be multinational, both in Zürich and with project partners within Europe, with frequent travels to the partner's location. Within this project, research topics may be in the area of: * Context recognition in sensor networks * Recognizing group context in large-scale socio-technical systems * Collaborative use of large socio-technical systems. * Modeling of socio-technical systems. * Technical aspects of socio-technical systems. More information For more information contact Dr. Daniel Roggen (droggen@ife.ee.ethz.ch) or see http://www.ife.ee.ethz.ch/openpositions/socionical
Requirements:	The candidate has a diploma, MSc, or equivalent in electrical engineering, micro-engineering, computer science or mathematics. He has strong interests in embedded systems and mobile computing, wireless sensor networks, machine learning/pattern recognition, and in the combination of theoretical and experimental research. Fluent spoken and written English is mandatory.
Institute:	Wearable Computing Laboratory
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	PhD thesis


Title:	PhD Position - 'Context Recognition in Opportunistic Networks'
Abstract:	The Wearable Computing Lab at ETH Zürich investigates ways of recognizing user context from data captured by sensors worn by the user or found in his neighborhood. You will carry research within a new EU-funded research project on 'context recognition in opportunistic networks'.
Task:	We offer a PhD position within the framework of the new European Research Project OPPORTUNITY. OPPORTUNITY groups 4 high-profile European universities and research institutes. They will collaborate over the next 3 years (2009-2011) to develop systems capable of activity recognition from sensors opportunistically discovered on the user and in his neighborhood. This includes hardware, software and algorithmic innovations that will be combined in a number of technology demonstrators. In this position you will be responsible for one of the project's work package. You will closely collaborate with the project's partners throughout the duration of the project. Your work environment will be multinational, both in Zürich and with project partners within Europe, with frequent travels to the partner's location. Within this project, your research topics will cover these areas (but are not limited to): * Context recognition algorithms in sensor networks. * Unsupervised dynamic adaptation of activity recognition algorithms to run-time defined power-performance goals. * Autonomous evolution of context-aware systems in open-ended environments * Inclusion of minimal user feedback for online context-recognition system training. More information For more information contact Dr. Daniel Roggen (droggen@ife.ee.ethz.ch) or see http://www.ife.ee.ethz.ch/openpositions/opportunity
Requirements:	The candidate has a diploma, MSc, or equivalent in electrical engineering, micro-engineering, computer science or mathematics. He has strong interests in mobile computing systems, machine learning/pattern recognition, signal processing, adaptive and learning systems, and in the combination of theoretical and experimental research. Fluent spoken and written English is mandatory.
Institute:	Wearable Computing Laboratory
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, PhD thesis


Title:	Student assistant in embedded systems: wireless wearable sensors design and upgrade
Abstract:	The wearable computing laboratory develops a number of wearable sensors, such as miniature motion sensor boards, physiological sensors, etc. These sensors are used to acquire the "context" of the user, such as his activities or physiological state, to create smart assistants. As part of a "wearable computing kit", we want to redesign a number of existing wireless wearable sensors, and design a few new ones, so that they can be included in an available standard case.
Task:	The job will consist in developing, producing, soldering and testing the new sensors. This includes electronic circuit and PCB design (in Altium Designer), PCB production (with the PCB-POOL service), soldering of components, writing the embedded software (in C), and testing. Several sensors need to be designed/redesigned (all, or a subset, can be selected by the candidate): 1) Bluetooth acceleration sensor redesign. An existing device needs to be redesigned to fit the standard case. In addition a gyroscope sensor has to be added. 2) Bluetooth ECG sensor design. A Bluetooth ECG sensor will be designed to fit in the standard case. An ECG sensor schematic is available, and a Bluetooth platform is available. The task will consist in combining these two in a new sensor. 3) Bluetooth respiration and skin temperature sensor design. A Bluetooth respiration and skin temperature sensor will be designed to fit in the standard case. A respiration sensor schematic is already available, and a Bluetooth platform is available. The task will consist in combining these two in a new sensor. 4) Bluetooth user-input / generic input device. A Bluetooth device with buttons for user input, and extension possibilities for analog or digital sensors will be designed to fit the standard case. The starting point is the Bluetooth platform that we have available. Conditions: flexible work hours. Part time a few hours per week, or continuous time. Paid by the hour. Duration: 1 month full time as a start, possibility to extend to 2 month full time.
Requirements:	The student should have experience in embedded system design (student in computer science or electronics) and should be familiar with Altium Designer, C programming for micro-controllers, and ideally the Atmel AVR family of micro-controllers. For more information and if you are interested in contact Dr. Daniel Roggen (droggen@ife.ee.ethz.ch).
Institute:	Wearable Computing Laboratory
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH
Forms:	SiROP-Project, Lab practice, Undergraduate Research Project


Title:	Student assistant in mechanics: case design for wearable sensors
Abstract:	The wearable computing laboratory develops a number of wearable sensors, such as miniature motion sensor boards, physiological sensors, etc. These sensors are used to acquire the "context" of the user, such as his activities or physiological state, to create smart assistants. A case must be designed for the wearable sensors developed in the Wearable Computing Laboratory.
Task:	1) Generic Case concept. Based on the electronic devices that we have, you will propose concepts for a generic case, in which our sensors can fit. You will also suggest how the sensors could be redesigned so that they all fit in the case concept. 2) Case design. On the basis of the case concept you will make a 3D model of the case and parts (using Pro Engineer, Autodesk Mechanical desktop, or another solid modeling software). 3) 3D rapid prototyping. The parts will be exported as 'stereolithography' files and the case will be produced using a 3D printer available at ETH.
Requirements:	The student should have experience in mechanical design (student in mechanics or micro-engineering) and be familiar with solid modeling software (Pro/Engineer, Mechanical Desktop).
Institute:	Wearable Computing Laboratory
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, EPFL
Forms:	SiROP-Project, Lab practice, Undergraduate Research Project


Title:	Digital VLSI design for a CMOS MEA
Abstract:	CMOS Micro-Electrode Arrays are arrangements of typically Platinum electrodes that are used for multisite extracellular recordings from electroactive cells, such as neurons, heart cells, retinal cells, or muscle cells. These chips are able both to acquire electrical signals and to send stimulations and can be adopted in fundamental neuroscience and pharmacology experiments. The design of a new CMOS MEA in 0.35 micron technology is underway at BEL. To enable high spatial resolution and low noise levels, a switch matrix will be employed to route the electrodes to the front-end amplifiers. Each pixel features an SRAM memory encoding the state of the associated switches.
Task:	This project involves the design of the digital part controlling the matrix connectivity, the analog circuitry, and the settings for the D/A converter employed for the electrical stimulation of the neurons. The main goal of your work will be to design the digital part of the new CMOS-MEA, defining the architecture of the controller, implementing it in VHDL code, and accomplish the physical implementation with layout CAD tools (Cadence DFII).
Requirements:	Knowledge of logic circuits, basics of VHDL programming (Lecture VLSI I), C/C++ programming. The language of the thesis work will be English.
Institute:	Bio Engineering Laboratory
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Master thesis, Diploma thesis


Title:	Numerical Simulation of the Flow Field within a Realistic Cerebral Artery Tree
Abstract:	One of the most present causes of death in the western world results from artery diseases, e.g. bulb-like pathologic deformations, called aneurysms. Aneurysms involve the risk of rupture resulting in subarachnoid hemorrhage. The reason for aneurysm development is not found yet, several ideas are discussed. One is fatigue of the vessel wall due to specific flow patterns.
Task:	The goal of this student project is to investigate a realistic artery geometry with respect to aneurysm development with the help of numerical simulations. Steps to work on: 1. Become familiar with software packages that will be used (mainly Geomagic, Ansys CFD and Ansys ICEM CFD). 2. Remodel an artery geometry with aneurysm into an artery geometry without aneurysm and adjust the numerical mesh accordingly. 3. Set up and run numerical simulations in the new geometry. 4. Analyze the results and draw conclusions concerning the development of the aneurysm.
Requirements:	• Basic knowledge of fluid dynamics • Interest in the medical field • Experience with any CFD software or Geomagic are of advantage • Language can be English or German.
Institute:	Institute of Energy Technology (IET), Laboratory of Thermodynamics in Emerging Technologies (LTNT)
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HSZ-T, TUM, UNIZH, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis, SiROP-Project


Title:	3D visual servoing of magnetic beads in an artificial eye
Abstract:	3D positioning of spherical magnetic beads through pairs of electromagnetic coils, using focus information. The beads will be moving in an artificial eyeball.
Task:	We are interested in creating a system to visually servo magnetic beads in an artificial eye. The required position information can be taken from focus information. The beads can be used later for deriving oxygen maps.
Requirements:	Computer vision knowledge Matlab knowledge C knowledge Optics knowledge Magnetic knowledge
Institute:	Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, UNIZH
Forms:	Master thesis, Diploma thesis


Title:	6DOF pose estimation through arbitrary optical systems
Abstract:	Pose estimation requires accurate camera calibration. For arbitrary optical systems that do not follow the perspective projection model, novel techniques should be examined. We are interested in developing a technique that works for systems with an arbitrary configuration of optical elements.
Task:	Pose estimation requires accurate camera calibration. For arbitrary optical systems that do not follow the perspective projection model, novel techniques should be examined. We are interested in developing a technique that works for systems with an arbitrary configuration of optical elements.
Requirements:	Computer Vision knowledge (good) Matlab knowledge (good) Optics knowledge (basic)
Institute:	Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, UNIZH
Forms:	Master thesis, Diploma thesis


Title:	3D Retinal Reconstruction
Abstract:	Create the 3D reconstruction of the human retina, having as input wide field retinal images taken with an unknown imaging system. The created 3d map will be used for intraocular microrobot steering.
Task:	Create the 3D reconstruction of the human retina, having as input wide field retinal images taken with an unknown imaging system. The created 3d map will be used for intraocular microrobot steering.
Requirements:	Computer Vision knowledge (3d reconstruction techniques) Matlab knowledge
Institute:	Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, UNIZH, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, SiROP-Project


Title:	IT-Benchmarking und IT-Controlling
Abstract:	Der Lehrstuhl für Wirtschaftsinformatik sucht ab sofort eine studentische Hilfskraft zur Mitarbeit in Forschungsprojekten in den BereichenIT-Benchmarking und IT-Controlling
Task:	Ihre Aufgaben: Aktive Projektmitarbeit bei der Durchführung und Aufbereitung von Kennzahlenvergleichen im Rahmen von Benchmarking-Untersuchungen bei zahlreichen bekannten Unternehmen. Mitarbeit bei der Analyse, Auswertung und Interpretation von Vergleichswerten der Unternehmen. Mitarbeit bei der Qualitätssicherung der Vergleichswerte in den Unternehmen.
Requirements:	Interesse an IT-Management, Wirtschaftsinformatik, BWL, gute bis sehr gute Leistungen im Studium
Institute:	Lehrstuhl für Wirtschaftsinformatik I17
Institution:	TUM (Technische Universität München)
Accepted Students:	TUM
Forms:	Undergraduate Research Project


Title:	Messungen von Tropfengrößen und -geschwindigkeiten bei der dieselmotorischen Einspritzung mittels optischer Messtechnik
Abstract:	Um zukünftige Emissionsgrenzwerte (Euro 6) erfüllen zu können, sollen durch Kooperation mit der MAN Nutzfahrzeuge AG, Wege aufgezeigt werden, wie durch innermotorische Maßnahmen, minimale NOx- und Partikelemissionen bei einem Common-Rail Diesel-Nutzfahrzeugmotor erreicht werden können. Am LS für Thermodynamik wird dazu die Gemischbildung (Zerstäubung, Strahlausbreitung, Verdampfung) bei Einspritzdrücken bis 3000bar untersucht. Hierbei kommt die Phasen Doppler Anemometrie Messtechnik (PDA) zum Einsatz, die eine gleichzeitige Messung einzelner Tropfengrößen und -geschwindigkeiten im Einspritzstrahl erlaubt. Die Messung von Größe und Geschwindigkeit der Tropfen gibt Aufschluss über die Qualität der Zerstäubung und erlaubt eine Beurteilung der physikalischen Vorgänge innerhalb des Sprays.
Task:	- Aufbau und Inbetriebnahme des PDA-Messsystems an einem bestehendem Hochdruckzellenprüfstand - Durchführen der Messreihen unter Variation von Einspritzdruck, Druck und Temperatur in der Hochdruckzelle - Auswertung der Messdaten mit Matlab und Dokumentation der Ergebnisse
Requirements:	Spass am experimentellen Arbeiten
Institute:	Lehrstuhl für Thermodynamik
Institution:	TUM (Technische Universität München)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Semester thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis


Title:	CollaBoard Screen Modifications
Abstract:	Die Forschungsgruppe Innovation Center Virtual Reality (ICVR) des Departements Maschinenbau an der ETH Zürich forscht in den Bereichen Human Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW), und Simu-lation. Zur temporären Mitarbeit in einem Projekt aus dem Bereich CSCW mit universitären und industriellen Partnern suchen wir ab sofort für die Dauer von ca. 2 Monaten einen Praktikanten (m/w) oder Hilfsassistenten (m/w). Wir bieten Mitarbeit in einer engagierten Forschungsgruppe an einer führenden Hochschule sowie eine hervorragende technische und wissenschaftliche Infrastruktur 5 Minuten vom Hauptbahnhof Zürich entfernt. Weitere Informationen zu unserer Forschungsgruppe finden Sie auf der Homepage unter www.icvr.ethz.ch.
Task:	Nach kurzer Einarbeitung bearbeiten Sie selbständig eine Konstruktionsaufgabe am CAD. Die basierend auf Ihren Zeich-nungen gefertigten mechanischen Teile sind anschliessend an Versuchsträgern zu montieren. Basierend auf einer Anlei-tung führen Sie zudem Umbauten an den Versuchsträgern durch.
Requirements:	Sie verfügen über handwerkliches Geschick und arbeiten gerne sorgfältig und exakt. Das Erstellen einfacher Konstruk¬tionen am CAD ist für Sie kein Problem.
Institute:	Innovation Center Virtual Reality
Institution:	ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
Accepted Students:	ETH, UNIZH
Forms:	Lab practice


Title:	ANSYS-Studie: Innere Spannungen mit 3D und 2D Simulationen und Bewertung der Zuverlässigkeit der einzelnen Modelle
Abstract:	Modernen mikromechanischen Strukturen, wie z.B. piezoelektrische Mikrophone, sind in der Regel aus mehreren Schichten aufgebaut. Daher spielen intrinsische Schichtspannungen, die durch den Fertigungsprozess entstehen, eine große Rolle, oft sogar soweit, dass das Betriebsverhalten der Bauelemente so stark gestört wird, dass gewisse Realisierungskonzepte von vornherein ausscheiden. Die mechanischen Spannungen entstehen dadurch, dass die einzelnen Schichten unterschiedliche Ausdehnungskoeffizienten haben und bei erhöhten Temperaturen abgeschieden werden. Kühlt das Bauteil dann auf Raumtemperatur ab, sind die einzelnen Schichten entweder gedehnt oder gestaucht. Dies führt zu unerwünschten Verformungen der Bauelemente und darüber hinaus zu einer Versteifung in den mechanischen Eigenschaften. Deshalb ist es unbedingt notwendig, diese Effekte richtig zu verstehen und auch bei Simulationen korrekt zu berücksichtigen, um dann durch entsprechende geometrische Design-Änderungen die Spannungen minimieren zu können.
Task:	Modernen mikromechanischen Strukturen, wie z.B. piezoelektrische Mikrophone, sind in der Regel aus mehreren Schichten aufgebaut. Daher spielen intrinsische Schichtspannungen, die durch den Fertigungsprozess entstehen, eine große Rolle, oft sogar soweit, dass das Betriebsverhalten der Bauelemente so stark gestört wird, dass gewisse Realisierungskonzepte von vornherein ausscheiden. Die mechanischen Spannungen entstehen dadurch, dass die einzelnen Schichten unterschiedliche Ausdehnungskoeffizienten haben und bei erhöhten Temperaturen abgeschieden werden. Kühlt das Bauteil dann auf Raumtemperatur ab, sind die einzelnen Schichten entweder gedehnt oder gestaucht. Dies führt zu unerwünschten Verformungen der Bauelemente und darüber hinaus zu einer Versteifung in den mechanischen Eigenschaften. Deshalb ist es unbedingt notwendig, diese Effekte richtig zu verstehen und auch bei Simulationen korrekt zu berücksichtigen, um dann durch entsprechende geometrische Design-Änderungen die Spannungen minimieren zu können.
Requirements:	Kenntnisse in ANSYS wären hilfreich, sind aber nicht unbedingt erforderlich
Institute:	Lehrstuhl für Technische Elektrophysik
Institution:	TUM (Technische Universität München)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HAP, HGKZ, HMT, HSSAZ, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Semester thesis


Title:	Experimentelle Bestimmung der Materialparameter und der inneren Spannungen für ein mikromechanisches piezoelektrisches Mikrophon
Abstract:	Mikromechanische Mikrophone sind zur Zeit für Anwendungen in Hörgeräten und Mobiltelefonen ein heißes, hochaktuelles Thema. Das Konzept zur Realisierung solcher Mikrophone basiert darauf, Schallwellen über die Schwingungen einer mikromechanisch hergestellten, dünnen Membran aufzunehmen und die durch die Auslenkung der Membran entstehenden elektrischen Signale auszulesen. Gerade von mikromechanischen Mikrophonen, die das piezoelektrische Wandlerprinzip ausnutzen, verspricht man sich wegen des relativ einfachen Herstellungsprozesses ein großes Potential. Nachteil dieser Strukturen ist, dass sie immer aus mehreren Schichten aufgebaut sind und daher die mechanischen Spannungen, die durch den Herstellungsprozess in der Sensormembran entstehen, eine große Rolle spielen. Durch sie wird die Membran verformt, so dass die Sensitivität sinkt und teilweise sogar so niedrig werden kann, dass das Mikrophon für die Anwendung untauglich wird. Mit Teststrukturen sollen daher die mechanischen Spannungen und die tatsächlich vorliegenden Materialeigenschaften der einzelnen benötigen Materialschichten bestimmt werden, um die genauen prozessabhängigen Materialparameter für den Designprozess und die Optimierung der Bauelemente zu extrahieren.
Task:	Eingebettet in eine aktuell am Lehrstuhl in Kooperation mit der Firma EPCOS durchgeführten- Dissertation und basierend auf einer derzeit laufenden Diplomarbeit (Zusammenarbeit erwünscht) sollen Teststrukturen mittels Interferometrie charakterisiert und mit FEM-Rechnungen (ANSYS) simuliert werden. Aus dem Vergleich von Meß- und Simulationsdaten sollen die Materialparameter und die inneren Spannungen der Schichten extrahiert werden. Die Arbeit wird in enger Zusammenarbeit und Absprache mit der Firma EPCOS durchgeführt, da die Erkenntnisse über die untersuchten Materialien direkt in den Entwicklungsprozess der Mikrophone einfließen sollen.
Requirements:	Kenntnisse in ANSYS wären hilfreich, sind aber nicht unbedingt gefordert
Institute:	Lehrstuhl für Technische Elektrophysik
Institution:	TUM (Technische Universität München)
Accepted Students:	ETH, HSW, HSZ-T, HWZ, PHZH, TUM, UNIZH, ZHW, EPFL
Forms:	Bachelor thesis, Master thesis, Diploma thesis


Title:	Numerische Simulation eines Strömungsfeldes in realistischen menschlichen Hirnarterien
Abstract:	Eine der häufigsten Todesursa