ETH Robotics Summer Fellowship 2026 and ETH Zurich, Switzerland

The ETH Robotics Summer Fellowship 2026 provides a premier platform for aspiring roboticists to conduct high-level research at one of the world’s leading technical universities. This fully funded program, organized by the RobotX initiative at ETH Zurich, offers graduate and exceptional undergraduate students the opportunity to collaborate with world-renowned experts. Consequently, participants gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratories while immersed in the vibrant academic culture of Switzerland.

Program Highlights

Feature	Details
Program Title	ETH Robotics Student Fellowship (RSF) 2026
Organizing Body	ETH RobotX Initiative
Location	ETH Zurich, Switzerland
Duration	9 Weeks (30 June to 28 August 2026)
Stipend	CHF 4,000 (Covers living and housing expenses)
Mode of Delivery	On-site Research Internship
Application Deadline	February 27, 2026

Program Overview

The ETH Robotics Summer Fellowship 2026 is designed to foster innovation and global collaboration in the rapidly evolving field of robotics. Specifically, the fellowship allows students to pursue an independent research project under the direct supervision of faculty members in a chosen laboratory. Furthermore, the program emphasizes diversity and equality, bringing together students from various cultural and academic backgrounds to solve complex technological challenges.

In addition to laboratory work, the fellowship includes numerous socializing and networking events. These sessions enable fellows to connect with the broader ETH research community, including current PhD candidates and industry professionals.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this prestigious international fellowship, applicants must meet several academic benchmarks:

• Academic Enrollment: Currently enrolled in a Master’s degree program in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related STEM field.
• Undergraduate Applicants: Exceptional final-year undergraduate students from top-tier institutions are also eligible to apply.
• Graduation Date: Applicants must be expected to graduate in January 2027 or later.
• Availability: Must be available for the entire fixed duration of the program (June 30 – August 28, 2026).
• Passport: Must hold a valid passport for at least six months beyond the program’s end date.

Curriculum & Research Areas

Fellows of the ETH Robotics Summer Fellowship 2026 are placed in specialized labs based on their research interests. Key participating groups include:

• Autonomous Systems Lab (ASL): Focus on autonomous navigation and field robotics.
• Robotic Systems Lab (RSL): Expertise in legged robots and robotic manipulation.
• Soft Robotics Lab: Innovation in flexible, bio-inspired robotic structures.
• Computational Robotics Lab: Advanced algorithms for robot motion and design.
• Computer Vision and Geometry Group: Research in visual perception and 3D modeling.

Learning Outcomes

By participating in the ETH Robotics Summer Fellowship 2026, students will achieve the following:

• Acquire advanced technical skills in hardware design, control systems, or AI-driven robotics.
• Develop a professional research methodology within a world-class laboratory setting.
• Enhance scientific communication skills through project reports and group presentations.
• Build a global professional network with leading experts in the robotics industry.
• Strengthen academic credentials for future doctoral studies at elite institutions.

Registration & Financial Details

Requirement	Information
Registration Portal	SiROP Application Tool
Stipend Amount	CHF 4,000
Travel Coverage	Up to CHF 1,200 (Overseas) / CHF 500 (Short distance)
Housing	Provided (Paid for from stipend)
Visa Support	Visa fees covered and administrative assistance provided

Application Process

Applicants must follow a strictly online process via the SiROP portal. The following steps are required:

1. Preparation: Prepare a CV in Europass format and a one-page Motivation Letter.
2. Lab Selection: Identify three preferred labs from the RobotX initiative that align with your research goals.
3. Referees: Provide contact details for two academic referees who will submit letters of recommendation.
4. Submission: Complete the SiROP registration and upload official transcripts by February 27, 2026.

Contact Information

• Program Office: ETH RobotX Center for Robotics
• Email: robotics-student-fellowship@ethz.ch
• Website: robotx.ethz.ch

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is knowledge of the German language required for this fellowship?

No, the program is fully conducted in English. While you will live in Zurich, all academic and professional interactions are in English.

Is there an application fee for the ETH Robotics Summer Fellowship 2026?

No, there is no fee to apply for this program.

Can I change the dates of the fellowship if they conflict with my university schedule?

No, the dates from June 30 to August 28 are fixed for the entire cohort and cannot be modified.

Is accommodation provided for the duration of the stay?

Yes, ETH arranges accommodation for all fellows. The cost is deducted from the CHF 4,000 stipend beforehand, ensuring a seamless move-in process.

Can I contact faculty members directly before applying?

Applicants are strictly requested not to contact faculty members directly regarding placement. Lab preferences must be indicated through the official application portal.