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.
Maturation Platform for Engineered 3D Muscle Tissues
The frontier of research in soft robotics aims at replacing classic soft materials used for actuators with biological ones (muscle) to take advantage of the innate adaptability, energy efficiency, and softness of biological systems. To grow more performant muscle tissues for robotics, we need to engineer a maturation platform for the muscle tissues that can provide the necessary mechanical and electrical cues. Therefore, in this project, we will aim to engineer a maturation platform for skeletal muscle bioactuators. The maturation platform will work as a device that applies cyclic stretch to the growing skeletal muscle tissue by pneumatic actuation. An initial prototype of the maturation platform has already been designed (see image). Your project will start from this prototype and do further optimization to result in a system that can give multiple stretching inputs to different muscle tissues.
Keywords
biohybrid robotics, soft robotics, 3D printing, biomaterials, actuation, material characterization
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2025-02-19 , Earliest start: 2025-02-20 , Latest end: 2025-10-31
Applications limited to EPFL - Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne , ETH Zurich , Empa , IBM Research Zurich Lab , University of Zurich
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Balciunaite Aiste
Topics Engineering and Technology
Development of a Humanoid Robotic Hand based on electro-ionic fiber pumps
Development of a Humanoid Robotic Hand actuated using electro-ionic fiber pumps placed in the forearm in collaboration with EPFL.
Keywords
Soft Robotics, Humanoid Robotic Hand, Tendon driven, electro-ionic, fiber pump
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2025-02-13 , Earliest start: 2025-02-10 , Latest end: 2025-12-31
Applications limited to ETH Zurich
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Hinchet Ronan , Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr.
Topics Engineering and Technology
Development of a linear electrostatic film actuator for a Humanoid Robotic Hand
Development of a linear electrostatic film actuator for soft robotic applications such as the actuation of a humanoid robotic hand.
Keywords
Electrostatic, Linear actuator, Flexible electronics, Soft Robotics, Humanoid Robotic Hands
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Master Thesis
Description
We are seeking a motivated student to develop linear electrostatic film actuators for soft robotic applications. Electrostatic film actuators are mechanism based on the electrostatic force generated when applying a voltage between two close electrodes forming a capacitor. The force and direction can be controlled using multi-phase signals. The thin, light and flexible form factor of such actuator technology is key for soft robotics. Such actuators have been already demonstrated for actuating flexible fish robots and wall climbing robots.
The linear electrostatic film actuators will be placed in an artificial forearm and used to move the finger’s joints of a humanoid robotic hand. Using such actuator in a humanoid robotic hand could have many advantages over standard electromagnetic motors, notably it could improve energy efficiency while being lighter, smaller and flexible which will be key for future robots.
Your task will be to investigate, design and manufacture a prototype of linear electrostatic film actuator and to characterize it. This would constitute the first prototype of such actuator at ETHZ. If successful, the actuators will be integrated and tested in a new generation of humanoid robotic hand.
This project is suitable for students with a strong background in electronic design, dielectric materials and thin-film manufacturing, and ideally electrostatic physics. The project will require a combination of design, hands-on work, as well as theoretical or computational analysis. If you are interested in this project and believe you have the skills and motivation to contribute, we encourage you to apply.
Work Packages
- Conduct a literature review on electrostatic film actuator technology to determine the best designs for a first prototype.
- Design and fabricate a working prototype of such actuator in the Soft Robotic Lab.
- Characterize the actuator and compare its performance to literature.
- Optimize the prototype design and fabrication to improve its performance
- Integrate the actuator in the humanoid robotic hand of the Soft Robotics Lab.
Requirements
▪ High motivation, problem-solving ability ▪ Experience in electronic circuit design ▪ Experience in flexible PCB ▪ Previous experience with dielectric materials and their thin film manufacturing is a plus
Contact Details
Dr. Ronan Hinchet, ronan.hinchet@srl.ethz.ch, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, D-MAVT Amirhossein Kazemipour, akazemi@ethz.ch, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, D-MAVT Prof. Robert Katzschmann, rkk@ethz.ch, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, D-MAVT
If you are interested, please submit a short motivational statement, your CV, transcripts, and one to two reference contacts. Applications via Sirop: https://srl.ethz.ch/education/student-projects.html.
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Published since: 2025-02-13 , Earliest start: 2025-02-23 , Latest end: 2025-12-31
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr.
Topics Engineering and Technology
Design and Fabrication of Dexterous, Humanoid Robotic Hand
Design and build dexterous human-like robotic hands with us at the Soft Robotics Lab and the spin-off mimic. We will explore different possibilities of developing design features such as tendon-driven mechanisms, lightweight structures, and complex mechanical joints of the hand. The developed features shall be integrated into a fully functional robotic hand and applied to solve practical manipulation challenges.
Keywords
humanoid, robotics, hand, dexterity, soft robotics, actuation, prototyping, modeling and control, mechatronics, biomimetic, design, 3D printing, silicone casting
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
Description
We build humanoid robotic hands that are dexterous, robust and easy to fabricate. This universal gripper could enable the automation of human-like tasks that are too complex for conventional grippers.
We offer a variety of topics for master’s/bachelor’s thesis or semester projects for students in mechanical engineering and robotics. Together we will define a focus on specific features for you to independently explore, develop, design and build using 3D printing, and silicone casting.
By the end of your project you should have put together a fully functional robotic hand implementing your novel features and systematically analyse its performance experimentally.
Work Packages
- Literature review of existing work
- Modeling and calculation of structures and mechanisms
- CAD design, prototype fabrication and testing
- Improve and iterate on hand design features
- System integration, modeling, control
- Practical experiments solving various manipulation challenges with the robotic hand
Requirements
- High motivation and problem-solving ability
- Capable of both working independently and cooperating in a team
- Keen to learn more about soft-rigid hybrid robotics and robot control
- Excellent proficiency in CAD modeling and 3D printing
- First-hand experience with prototyping, actuators and sensors
- Knowledge of Newtonian mechanics and basic continuum mechanics
- Experience in silicone casting, C/C++, Python, PCB design, and robot simulation is a plus
Please submit your application documents, including a CV, academic transcripts, reference contacts and an optional cover letter.
Contact Details
Dr. Ronan Hinchet ronan.hinchet@srl.ethz.ch
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Published since: 2025-02-13 , Earliest start: 2024-09-01 , Latest end: 2025-07-24
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr. , Weirich Stefan
Topics Engineering and Technology
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
Description
The objective in biohybrid robotics is to combine living biological components with artificial materials to create adaptable and functional systems capable of performing various tasks. As a part of our research group, you will be working on the development of computational models for muscle dynamics, a crucial element in the creation of biohybrid robots. Modeling the intricate structure and behavior of biological muscles poses a challenge due to their complex and nonlinear characteristics. Simulation models must capture the biomechanical and physiological aspects of muscle function, including factors like elasticity or muscle fatigue. Furthermore, artificial muscles exist within a fluidic environment, introducing the relevance of fluid-structure interaction (FSI). This also highlights the importance of the dynamic interplay between the deformable structures of the muscles and the surrounding fluid, further complicating the modeling and control aspects in biohybrid robotic systems. Our research involves leveraging both first principle soft body simulation methods and machine learning techniques to enhance our understanding and control of biohybrid systems.
Work Packages
- Literature Review and State-of-the-Art Analysis: Gain comprehensive knowledge of current methods in muscle modeling and soft body simulation in biohybrid robotics.
- Development of First-Principle Models: Develop mathematical models for simulating muscle cells based on physical and biological principles.
- Simulation Framework Integration: Incorporate the developed muscle models into a broader soft body simulation framework.
Requirements
- Strong academic background with exceptional grades in physics, computer science, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, or related fields.
- Strong programming skills (C++ and Python).
- Proficiency in FEM-based simulations.
- Prior knowledge in muscle biology is a plus.
- Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research and a keen interest in soft robotics.
- Capable of both working independently and cooperating with mentors and teammates.
Contact Details
Manuel Mekkattu, manuel.mekkattu@srl.ethz.ch, Soft Robotics Lab, D-MAVT, ETH Zürich
Prof. Robert Katzschmann, rkk@ethz.ch, Soft Robotics Lab, D-MAVT, ETH Zürich
Earliest start: February 1, 2025
If you are interested, please submit a motivation letter, your CV, and transcripts.
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Published since: 2025-02-04 , Earliest start: 2025-02-01 , Latest end: 2026-02-01
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
Description
The Soft Robotics Lab is developing a framework for soft robot modeling using the Finite Element Method (FEM) and an energy minimization model. The current implementation is optimized for parallel execution on CPUs. To meet the demand for more complex simulations and improve computational efficiency, we propose developing a GPU-accelerated version of the framework. By harnessing the computational power of GPUs, we aim to significantly speed up simulations and scale up problem sizes, enabling more detailed and realistic soft robotics simulations as well as real-time control. GPUs excel in handling numerous parallel computations simultaneously, making them ideal for speeding up iterative calculations inherent in soft body dynamics simulations. Ultimately, this effort contributes to pushing the boundaries of soft robotics research and application, paving the way for innovative developments in the field.
Work Packages
- Understand the current soft body modeling framework and its CPU parallelization.
- Review literature on CUDA and GPU acceleration for FEM.
- Set up a development environment for GPU programming.
- Fine-tune CUDA kernels and parallelization strategies for maximum performance.
- Conduct benchmark simulations to verify correctness and performance gains.
Requirements
- Strong academic background with exceptional grades in computer science.
- Strong programming skills (C++ and Python).
- Knowledge in FEM-based simulations.
- Knowledge in basic GPU Programming including CUDA.
- Keen to learn more about soft robotics and physical modeling.
- Capable of both working independently and cooperating with mentors and teammates.
Contact Details
Manuel Mekkattu, manuel.mekkattu@srl.ethz.ch, Soft Robotics Lab, D-MAVT, ETH Zürich
Prof. Robert Katzschmann, rkk@ethz.ch, Soft Robotics Lab, D-MAVT, ETH Zürich
Earliest start: February 1, 2025
If you are interested, please submit a motivation letter, your CV, and transcripts.
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Published since: 2025-02-04 , Earliest start: 2025-02-01 , Latest end: 2026-02-01
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
Description
Soft robots are characterized by their ability to deform continuously and adapt to complex environments, making them ideal for tasks in unstructured and dynamic settings. Our lab is developing a cutting-edge soft robot modeling framework that employs FEM and energy-based methods to simulate these robots. We are now expanding this framework to support diverse robot designs, optimize performance, and incorporate new types of physics. By contributing to this effort, you will help refine the tools needed to benchmark, optimize, and control soft robots, pushing the boundaries of what they can achieve in both research and real-world applications.
Work Packages
Possible work packages are:
- Extend the existing soft robot framework for specific soft robot designs (e.g., soft manipulators or bio-inspired robots).
- Implement benchmark simulations to evaluate framework performance and accuracy.
- Introduce new physical models (e.g., fluid-structure interaction, electromagnetism, or thermal dynamics).
- Develop and improve optimization and control strategies for soft robots.
Requirements
- Strong academic background with exceptional grades in physics, computer science, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, or related fields.
- Strong programming skills (C++ and Python).
- Proficiency in FEM-based simulations.
- Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research and a keen interest in soft robotics.
- Capable of both working independently and cooperating with mentors and teammates.
Contact Details
Manuel Mekkattu, manuel.mekkattu@srl.ethz.ch, Soft Robotics Lab, D-MAVT, ETH Zürich
Prof. Robert Katzschmann, rkk@ethz.ch, Soft Robotics Lab, D-MAVT, ETH Zürich
Earliest start: February 1, 2025
If you are interested, please submit a motivation letter, your CV, and transcripts.
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Published since: 2025-02-04 , Earliest start: 2025-02-01 , Latest end: 2026-02-01
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Mekkattu Manuel , Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr.
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Development of a Giant Humanoid Robotic Hand
Development of a Giant Humanoid Robotic Hand for the rapid deployment and handling of equipment in flooding and earthquake disaster scenarios
Keywords
Soft Robotics, Humanoid Robotic Hand, Tendon driven, Dexterous manipulator, Rolling contact joints
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Semester Project , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2025-01-06 , Earliest start: 2025-01-06 , Latest end: 2025-08-31
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Hinchet Ronan , Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr.
Topics Engineering and Technology
Development of sensor networks integrated on scaly artificial robotic skins
Development of a multi-sensory network integrated on artificial scales serving as soft robotic skin for robotic limbs
Keywords
Soft Robotics, robotic skin, sensor network, artificial scale, sensory scales
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Semester Project , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2025-01-06 , Earliest start: 2025-01-06 , Latest end: 2025-08-31
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Hinchet Ronan , Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr. , Kim Jaehoon
Topics Engineering and Technology
Assembly Assistant: Crafting your robotic companion for teamwork
This project is inspired by the vision of seamless human-robot collaboration in household settings. As our homes become smarter, the need for robotic systems that can work alongside humans to perform tasks with precision and adaptability is growing. This project empowers individuals to design and build a robotic companion tailored to assist with household tasks like assembling furniture. By fostering teamwork between humans and robots, the project highlights how technology can enhance everyday life, promoting efficiency, creativity, and a shared sense of accomplishment. It envisions a future where robots are not just tools but collaborative partners, making home life easier, more productive, and more enjoyable for everyone.
Keywords
human-robot collaboration, egocentric vision, dexterous manipulation
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Semester Project , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2025-01-06 , Earliest start: 2025-01-13
Organization Computer Vision and Geometry Group
Hosts Wang Xi , Gavryushin Alexey , Yang Chenyu
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences
Enhancing performance of electrostatic rotational motors for the next generation of robotic actuators
This project aims to enhance an electrostatic actuator by improving its specific power and power density while optimizing its manufacturing process, through approaches such as mechanical redesign, materials innovation, or computational optimization.
Keywords
soft robotics, electrostatic motors, electrostatic actuators, mechanical design
Labels
Master Thesis
Description
Electrostatic actuators have the potential to be a far more efficient alternative to conventional motors based on the electromagnetic principle, as they can sustain torque output without consuming energy, while still being compliant and backdrivable. Based on an existing design for an electrostatic motor using artificial muscles, you will propose and implement solutions to improve its specific power (i.e. lighter) and power density (i.e. smaller), as well as streamline the manufacturing procedure. You can approach it from different perspectives such as mechanical (e.g. improve layout of the structure), materials (e.g. use a lighter / more robust material for the mechanism), or optimization-based (e.g. FEM simulations to optimize the structure).
Requirements:
Willingness to prototype quickly and iterate through many versions
Strong motivation, problem-solving skills, and ability to work independently
Proficiency in CAD / simulation software to create and validate designs
References:
- Ludois, Daniel C., Kevin J. Frankforter, Baoyun Ge, Aditya N. Ghule, Peter Killeen, and Ryan P. Knippel. 2022. “Macroscale Electrostatic Rotating Machines and Drives: A Review and Multiplicative Gain Performance Strategy.” IEEE Journal of Emerging and Selected Topics in Power Electronics 10 (1): 14–34.
Goal
Work Packages:
Review literature on electrostatic actuation and rotational mechanisms
Compare different approaches to improve the performance of the existing electrostatic motor
Strategically research & develop the improvements to the motor.
Implement a working prototype
Quantify how much each metric has improved over the original
Contact Details
To apply, please send Yasunori a short motivation statement for this project, with a copy of your CV, transcripts, and two reference contacts if you have worked on any past projects. Also feel free to contact me for any questions!
Yasunori Toshimitsu, PhD Candidate, ytoshimitsu@ethz.ch, Soft Robotics Lab, D-MAVT, ETH Zurich
Amirhossein Kazemipour, PhD Candidate, akazemi@ethz.ch, Soft Robotics Lab, D-MAVT, ETH Zurich
Prof. Robert Katzschmann, Assistant Professor of Robotics, rkk@ethz.ch, Soft Robotics Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, D-MAVT, ETH Zurich
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Published since: 2025-01-05 , Earliest start: 2025-01-06 , Latest end: 2025-09-01
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr. , Toshimitsu Yasunori , Kazemipour Amirhossein
Topics Engineering and Technology
Development of Neuromuscular Biohybrid Robots
Biohybrid robots integrate living cells and synthetic components to achieve motion. These systems often rely on engineered skeletal muscle tissues that contract upon electrical stimulation for actuation. Neuromuscular-powered biohybrid robots take this concept further by integrating motor neurons to induce muscle contractions, mimicking natural muscle actuation. In our lab, we are developing neuromuscular actuators using advanced 3D co-culture systems and biofabrication techniques to enable functional macro-scale biohybrid robots.
Keywords
Tissue engineering, mechanical engineering, biology, neuroengineering, biomaterials, biohybrid robotics, 3D in vitro models, biofabrication, bioprinting, volumetric printing.
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
Description
Our project focuses on overcoming current limitations in neuromuscular biohybrid robots, particularly scaffold design and the development of functional neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). You will apply expertise in biology, biomaterial synthesis, and biofabrication to tackle the key challenges of creating functional engineered tissues within the field of biohybrid robotics.
Goal
By incorporating moto-neurospheres into 3D co-culture systems with skeletal muscle tissues, we aim to establish global innervation and enable synchronized muscle contractions.
Contact Details
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Published since: 2024-12-17 , Earliest start: 2025-01-15
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Badolato Asia , Katzschmann Robert, Prof. Dr.
Topics Engineering and Technology , Biology
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: 2024-12-01 , Earliest start: 2024-08-01 , Latest end: 2025-06-30
Organization Soft Robotics Lab
Hosts Michelis Mike , 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!