Open Doctoral Researcher Position at ICD: Human-Machine Collaboration
The Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD - Prof. Achim Menges) at the University of Stuttgart invites applications for an open position:
- RESEARCH ASSOCIATE: DOCTORAL RESEARCHER (TV-L E13)
The position is within the ICD’s Human-Machine Collaboration research area and is situated at the intersection of robotic construction and human-centred design. It offers the opportunity to shape how human-machine collaboration transitions from controlled laboratory settings to real-world fabrication and construction sites. The position will contribute to multiple research projects related to human–robot collaboration (HRC), involving a range of interfaces and robotic platforms.
More information about the research area can be found here: Human-Machine Collaboration Research
Research topics:
- Design and implement intuitive interaction systems, including wearable and visual interfaces, to communicate robot intent, safety states and task sequences, while enabling effective human input.
- Develop and integrate coordination strategies that support adaptive task planning and real-time collaboration between humans and robots in dynamic environments.
- Develop real-time digital twin frameworks for monitoring, simulation, and feedback, enabling seamless integration of design, robotic execution, and human supervision.
- Conduct user studies to evaluate and refine system design.
We expect you to have:
- A master's degree in architecture, computational design, human–computer interaction (HCI), robotics, interaction design, or a closely related field.
- Experience in at least one of the following areas: HRC, robotics, wearable or mobile user interfaces, user study design and evaluation, digital twins, machine learning, or computational design workflows for robotic fabrication.
- Strong programming skills (e.g., Python, C#). Experience with real-time data processing, AI methods, and ROS is beneficial.
- A high level of motivation, team spirit, and interest in interdisciplinary work.
- A strong ability to work independently.
- Excellent English language skills.
What we offer:
- The opportunity to conduct doctoral research within interdisciplinary, cutting-edge research projects.
- Close interdisciplinary collaboration with leading academic and industry partners.
- Teaching experience in topics related to your research as part of the international Integrative Technologies & Architectural Design Research M.Sc. Program (ITECH).
- Hands-on fieldwork with construction stakeholders and real-world projects.
- Access to the interdisciplinary research environment and outstanding research infrastructure of the Cluster of Excellence Integrative Computational Design and Construction for Architecture (IntCDC) and the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems.
The expected start date is October 1, 2026, but may be negotiable to meet individual requirements.
Applications (including a CV, a statement of interest, a portfolio of work, research/publication samples, and a list of computational design and digital fabrication skills indicating proficiency levels) should be submitted as a single PDF file (maximum file size is strictly 10MB) to mail@icd.uni-stuttgart.de with the subject line “Human–Machine Collaboration”.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
The initial application deadline is July 20, 2026.
The Institute for Computational Design and Construction offers the opportunity to work with one of the leading teams in computational design, fabrication and construction research. ICD has built an internationally recognized track-record of pioneering research and demonstrator buildings, attracting world class researchers: www.icd.uni-stuttgart.de
The Cluster of Excellence IntCDC provides a unique environment for conducting integrative and interdisciplinary research for advancing architecture, engineering and construction: www.intcdc.uni-stuttgart.de
As the University of Stuttgart strives to improve gender equality amongst its researchers, applications by women are particularly encouraged. Individuals with disabilities will be preferably employed where qualifications are deemed equal. All research associates will be employed through University of Stuttgart's central administration.