Student Assistant: Conducting VR experiment in educational research

The Professorship for Learning Sciences and Higher Education at ETH Zurich is seeking a motivated student assistant (30%) starting in October 2026.

In this role, you will support research projects involving VR experiments in embodied learning. Your main responsibility will be to conduct experiments according to established protocols, including setting up VR, interviewing participants, and addressing unexpected scenarios during the studies. For interested candidates, there may also be opportunities for future involvement in data analysis or related side projects.

Our research group is dedicated to investigating human cognition and learning processes. We conduct theory-driven research about how people learn and how to develop learning environments to better support learning.

Project background

We are conducting VR experiments on STEM learning, particularly in physics and mathematics. As a student assistant, you will work closely with a doctoral candidate and, after receiving appropriate training, support the data collection process by conducting experimental sessions with participants.

Job description

• Be able to conduct studies independently according to the study protocol.
• Set up VR and address potential technical issues after training.
• Conduct in-depth interviews about users’ experience.
• Manage data properly.

Profile

• You are currently enrolled as a student at a university in Zurich.
• You are fluent in English.
• You are able to explain basic physics or mathematics concepts clearly.
• You pay strong attention to details, and you work responsibly.
• You are available to work approximately 10 -15 hours per week during Oct - Dec (i.e. at least 1 full day per week).
• You are able to grasp technical aspects and can respond to potential issues quickly (prior experience with VR is not a must).
• You are interested in interacting with people.
• Previous experience in interviewing or teaching is a plus.

We offer

• A workload of up to 15 hours per week
• Insights into educational research involving VR design and user experience
• The opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary team in a friendly and collaborative environment.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application, including the following documents:

• A brief statement explaining why you would like to join us and what you can contribute
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Proof of enrollment

Further information about the Professorship for Learning Sciences and Higher Education can be found on our website. If you have any questions regarding the project or the position, please contact Fan Wang (fan.wang@gess.ethz.ch).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in
science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education,
cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge
into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our
university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an
environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe,
yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to
develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.