Student Projects

We offer student projects such as bachelor theses, semester projects or master theses and we are also open for students' own proposals on potential students projects.

Silver Nanoparticle-Based Platforms for Thermal Modulation and Glucose Sensing in Engineered Muscle Tissues

This project aims to develop silver nanoparticle-based systems as multifunctional, responsive materials for engineered skeletal muscle tissues. The work will explore their use in localized thermal modulation of cellular activity and as embedded sensors for glucose monitoring within tissue constructs. By integrating nanomaterials with biofabricated muscle systems, the project seeks to create advanced platforms for controlled stimulation and real-time metabolic sensing.

Keywords

silver nanoparticles, nanomaterials, thermal modulation, glucose sensing, skeletal muscle tissue, biofabrication, biosensors, nanomedicine, tissue engineering, bio-hybrid systems.

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Semester Project , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)

Description

The integration of functional nanomaterials into engineered tissues offers powerful opportunities to control and monitor biological processes in situ. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), with their unique optical, thermal, and electrical properties, represent promising candidates for both actuation and sensing applications in bioengineered systems. This interdisciplinary project, at the interface of nanotechnology, bioengineering, and bioelectronics, aims to develop and integrate silver nanoparticle-based platforms within 3D engineered skeletal muscle tissues. The first objective is to exploit the photothermal properties of AgNPs to enable localized, non-invasive thermal modulation of cells, providing a tool to influence cellular behavior, maturation, and contractile activity. Because heating does not require additional wiring, this approach allows for an untethered bioactuator module. In parallel, the project will investigate the use of functionalized AgNPs as glucose-responsive elements embedded within the tissue, enabling real-time monitoring of metabolic activity. Such sensing capabilities are critical for understanding tissue function, optimizing culture conditions, and developing responsive bio-hybrid systems. The work will involve the integration of nanoparticles into biomaterial matrices, and incorporation into engineered muscle constructs. Functional characterization will include assessment of thermal responsiveness, cellular compatibility, contractile performance, and glucose sensing capabilities. This project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of multifunctional bio-hybrid systems that combine actuation and sensing at the nanoscale, with potential applications in bioelectronics, regenerative medicine, and smart tissue platforms. Work Packages • Literature review on silver nanoparticles, photothermal effects, and biosensing • Synthesis and functionalization of silver nanoparticles • Integration of nanoparticles into biomaterials and muscle tissue constructs • Evaluation of photothermal modulation of cellular activity • Development and testing of glucose-sensing capabilities within tissues • Functional characterization (biocompatibility, contractility, sensing performance) Requirements • High motivation and strong problem-solving skills • Ability to work independently in an experimental research environment • Background or interest in nanotechnology, bioengineering, or related fields • Familiarity with cell culture and/or nanoparticle synthesis is a plus • Willingness to learn advanced characterization and biofabrication techniques

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Published since: 2026-05-06 , Earliest start: 2026-05-06 , Latest end: 2026-10-31

Organization Soft Robotics Lab

Hosts Filippi Miriam

Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Biology

Encasing Bio-actuators for Real-World Usability of Bio-hybrid Robots

This project aims to develop 3D muscle bioactuators integrated with smart protective encasing systems for operation beyond standard in vitro conditions. Building on existing platforms for thermal regulation and nutrient supply, the project will focus on designing responsive encapsulation strategies capable of adapting to environmental cues, such as pH variations, to regulate exchange with the surroundings. These systems will enable more robust, functional bioactuators for applications in bio-hybrid robotics and translational bioengineering.

Keywords

skeletal muscle, bioactuators, bio-hybrid robotics, stimuli-responsive biomaterials, encapsulation systems, chitosan, pH-responsive materials, biofabrication, tissue engineering

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Semester Project , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)

Description

Skeletal muscle–based bioactuators represent a promising frontier in bio-hybrid robotics, enabling soft, adaptive, and energy-efficient actuation. However, maintaining their functionality outside tightly controlled laboratory environments remains a key challenge, particularly in terms of protection, nutrient exchange, and environmental stability. This interdisciplinary project, at the interface of bioengineering, materials science, and soft robotics, aims to address these challenges through the development of smart encasing systems for engineered muscle tissues. Building on established platforms incorporating thermal regulation and nutrient reservoirs, the project will focus on designing semi-rigid and soft encapsulation strategies capable of dynamic, programmable interaction with the environment. A central objective will be the development of pH-responsive encasing systems, for example, based on chitosan and mechanically hybrid biomaterials, that can reversibly open or close to regulate permeability and protect the embedded bioactuators. These systems will be engineered to maintain tissue viability while enabling controlled exchange of nutrients, gases, and signaling molecules. The project will include the fabrication of skeletal muscle tissues, their integration into protective encasings, and the evaluation of actuator performance under varying environmental conditions. Moreover, the project will include the optimization of simulation solutions to mimic the metabolic environment of engineered tissue through different stages of growth, adjusting acidity conditions as needed. Functional readouts will include contractility, responsiveness to stimuli, stability over time, and adaptability to external cues. This work provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of next-generation bio-hybrid systems with enhanced robustness and autonomy, bridging the gap between in vitro tissue engineering and real-world applications. The scope and originality of the project make it particularly suitable for students interested in advanced biofabrication, smart materials, and bio-hybrid technologies.

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Published since: 2026-05-06 , Earliest start: 2026-05-06 , Latest end: 2026-10-31

Organization Soft Robotics Lab

Hosts Filippi Miriam

Topics Engineering and Technology , Biology

HASEL-Driven Rotation Drive Design and Testing

Master’s Thesis Opportunity at ETH Zurich We’re exploring a new kind of rotational actuator based on stacked HASEL (Hydraulically Amplified Self-Healing Electrostatic) actuators. The goal is to convert the linear motion of soft actuators into continuous rotation using a new mechanism we have developed. We want to outperform traditional motors in specific power, quiet operation, and adaptability all while eliminating the need for magnets from the motor system. This work will be in collaboration with colleagues at Northeastern University in Boston MA.

Keywords

electrostatic actuators, rotational motors, HASEL

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Master Thesis

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Published since: 2026-04-13 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-31

Organization Soft Robotics Lab

Hosts Toshimitsu Yasunori

Topics Engineering and Technology

Deep Learning of Residual Physics For Soft Robot Simulation

Incorporating state-of-the-art deep learning approaches to augment conventional soft robotic simulations for a fast, accurate and useful simulation for real soft robots.

Keywords

Soft Robotics, Machine Learning, Physical Modeling, Simulation

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Semester Project , Master Thesis

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Published since: 2026-04-03 , Earliest start: 2026-01-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31

Organization Soft Robotics Lab

Hosts Michelis Mike , Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr.

Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology

Advancing Fluid-Structure Interaction Simulations for Soft Robots

Soft robots are characterized by their ability to continuously deform and adapt to complex environments, making them ideal for tasks in unstructured, dynamic settings. Our lab is developing a cutting-edge soft robot modeling framework that employs FEM and energy-based methods to simulate these robots. Simulating the interactions of these soft robots with their surrounding fluid is crucial for capturing the physics of the robots’ deformation accurately. We have developed a fluid dynamics solver operating on the principle of minimizing energy. The framework now requires thorough benchmarking, optimization for speed, and extension with SRL’s in-house FEM framework for coupling with soft deformable bodies.

Keywords

Fluid Dynamics, Fluid-Structure Interaction, Soft Robot Simulation, Scientific Computing

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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)

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Published since: 2026-03-31 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31

Organization Soft Robotics Lab

Hosts Dhaker Adamya

Topics Engineering and Technology

Mini-muscle gym: Developing a Broad-field Electrical and Mechanical Stimulation Device for Biohybrid Robots

Biohybrid robotics seeks to replace conventional actuator materials with engineered muscle to harness the adaptability and efficiency of biological systems. A major challenge, however, remains the limited force output of engineered skeletal muscle tissues. This project aims to address that limitation through the development of an electrical stimulation system integrated into a muscle-maturation platform ("mini-muscle gym") designed to enhance tissue strength via mechanical and electrical cues. The work will involve circuit and PCB design, implementation within an existing mechanical framework, and close collaboration with tissue engineers to meet biological requirements. The resulting thesis will form an interdisciplinary contribution at the interface of engineering and biology. See attached pdf for further details and references.

Keywords

Biohybrid robotics, soft robotics, circuit design, signal generation, biomaterials, electrical stimulation, mechanical stimulation, actuation, tissue engineering, muscle tissue, muscle cells.

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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis

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Published since: 2026-03-04 , Earliest start: 2026-03-01 , Latest end: 2026-11-30

Organization Soft Robotics Lab

Hosts Balciunaite Aiste , Paniagua Pablo , Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr.

Topics Engineering and Technology

Low-Voltage Electrohydraulic Actuators for Untethered Robots

We are building the next generation of HALVE (Hydraulically Amplified Low-Voltage Electrostatic) actuators which are flexible, electrostatic actuators that operate at voltages 5–10× lower than traditional soft electrostatic systems. You will help us explore novel actuator geometries, ultra‑thin functional layers, and new fabrication and modeling techniques to unlock scalable, energy‑efficient soft robotic systems.

Keywords

soft robotics, low-voltage actuation, dielectric elastomers, electrostatic actuators, PVDF‑TrFE‑CTFE, dielectric spectroscopy, vapor deposition, CNC sealing, LTSpice, mechatronics, materials science

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Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)

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Published since: 2026-02-10 , Earliest start: 2026-02-28 , Latest end: 2026-12-11

Organization Soft Robotics Lab

Hosts Albayrak Deniz , Hinchet Ronan

Topics Engineering and Technology

3D Bioprinting of Neurotized and Disease-Model Skeletal Muscle Tissues: Focus on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

This project aims to develop advanced 3D bioprinted skeletal muscle models with functional innervation, including neurotized healthy muscle tissues and in vitro models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Using state-of-the-art biofabrication strategies, the project will generate physiologically relevant muscle constructs suitable for functional characterization and pharmacological testing. These platforms are intended to support both fundamental research on neuromuscular interactions and translational studies for drug evaluation.

Keywords

3D bioprinting, skeletal muscle tissue, innervation, neuromuscular junctions, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, disease modeling, pharmacological testing, biofabrication, biomaterials, tissue engineering.

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Semester Project , Master Thesis , Other specific labels , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)

Description

Project Description. Skeletal muscle function critically depends on proper innervation and tissue organization. Reproducing these features in vitro remains a major challenge, particularly for modeling muscle and neuromuscular diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This interdisciplinary project, at the interface of bioengineering, cell biology, and regenerative medicine, aims to address this challenge through advanced 3D bioprinting approaches. The project will focus on the fabrication of cm-scale skeletal muscle constructs that support muscle maturation and functional innervation (Fig 1). Parallel efforts will be dedicated to the development of 3D bioprinted DMD muscle models, enabling the study of disease-specific structural and functional impairments. Particular attention will be paid to recreating biomimetic tissue architectures, including aligned muscle fibers and neuromuscular interfaces. Bio-inks and scaffold designs will be optimized to support muscle cell differentiation, neural integration, and long-term tissue viability. Functional readouts will include contractility, responsiveness to electrical or neural stimulation, and disease-relevant phenotypes. The engineered tissues will further be used as platforms for pharmacological testing, providing a controlled environment to evaluate therapeutic compounds and assess functional rescue. This project offers a rich experimental framework with strong scientific depth. The scope and originality of the work provide excellent opportunities to contribute to high-quality scientific outputs, making it particularly well-suited for students interested in pursuing an academic or research-oriented career. Requirements • High motivation and strong problem-solving skills • Ability to work independently in an experimental research environment • Background or interest in bioengineering, biotechnology, or related fields • Familiarity with cell culture, and ideally 3D printing and biofabrication • Willingness to learn fluorescence microscopy and molecular bioassays Applications are accepted via Sirop. Please, submit your CV, your BSc and MSc transcripts, and two reference contacts.

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Published since: 2026-02-05 , Earliest start: 2026-02-05 , Latest end: 2026-11-30

Organization Soft Robotics Lab

Hosts Filippi Miriam

Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Biology

Combined Muscle and Nerve Tissue Engineering

Engineered muscle tissues have applications in regenerative medicine, drug testing, and understanding motion. A key challenge is restoring neuromuscular communication, especially in treating volumetric muscle loss (VML). This project aims to create functional neuromuscular constructs with biomimetic innervation. Scaffolds will be made using electrospun fibers, conductive materials, and drug-loaded graphene. Muscle and nerve cells derived from iPSCs will be seeded into these scaffolds. Constructs will be tested for motion, drug response, and integration in bio-hybrid robotic systems. The platform will advance muscle-nerve regeneration, drug testing, and bio-hybrid robotics.

Keywords

Tissue engineering, innervation, neural tissue, nerve, muscle tissue, scaffold, iPSCs, muscle cells, bioprinting, biofabrication, biohybrid robotics, soft robotics, 3D printing, biomaterials, electrical stimulation, actuation.

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Semester Project , Master Thesis

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Published since: 2026-01-07 , Earliest start: 2026-01-01 , Latest end: 2026-10-31

Organization Soft Robotics Lab

Hosts Filippi Miriam

Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Biology

Computational Modeling of Muscle Dynamics for Biohybrid Robots

This research aims to advance biohybrid robotics by integrating living biological components with artificial materials. The focus is on developing computational models for artificial muscle cells, a critical element in creating biohybrid robots. Challenges include modeling the complex and nonlinear nature of biological muscles, considering factors like elasticity and muscle fatigue, as well as accounting for fluid-structure interaction in the artificial muscle's environment. The research combines first principle soft body simulation methods and machine learning to improve understanding and control of biohybrid systems.

Keywords

Biohybrid Robotics, Computational Models, Soft Body Simulation, Finite Element Method (FEM), Muscle Dynamics, Soft Robotics

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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis

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Published since: 2025-12-09 , Earliest start: 2026-01-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31

Organization Soft Robotics Lab

Hosts Mekkattu Manuel , Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr.

Topics Mathematical Sciences , Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Biology , Physics

GPU Acceleration of Soft Robot Modeling: Enhancing Performance with CUDA

We are enhancing soft robot modeling by developing a GPU-accelerated version of our FEM-based framework using CUDA. This research focuses on optimizing parallel computations to significantly speed up simulations, enabling larger problem sizes and real-time control. By improving computational efficiency, we aim to advance soft robotics research and facilitate more detailed, dynamic simulations.

Keywords

Soft Body Simulation, high-performance computing, GPU programming, Parallel Computing, Finite Element Method (FEM), Multiphysics Simulation

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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis

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Published since: 2025-12-09 , Earliest start: 2026-01-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31

Organization Soft Robotics Lab

Hosts Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr. , Mekkattu Manuel

Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology

Advancing Soft Robot Modeling: Integrating Physics, Optimization, and Control

We are advancing soft robot simulation with FEM and energy-based methods to model complex, adaptive behaviors. This research entails developing the framework to support diverse designs, integrate new physics models, and optimize performance, enabling enhanced control and real-world applications of soft robots.

Keywords

Soft Robotics, Finite Element Method (FEM), Physical Modeling, Benchmarking, Optimization, Multiphysics Simulation, Sim-to-Real

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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis

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Published since: 2025-12-09 , Earliest start: 2026-01-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31

Organization Soft Robotics Lab

Hosts Mekkattu Manuel , Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr.

Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology

For all projects, please contact the responsible supervisor if you have questions and apply via sirop.org with your cover letter, detailed CV, transcripts, and prior publications (if you have any).

In case you have project ideas related to our research areas or research platforms, take the opportunity and propose your own project!