Professor of Generative AI in Visual Computing (f/m/d)

ETH Zurich is establishing a new centre for teaching and research in Heilbronn, Germany, dedicated to advancing a human-centred digital future. Embedded in one of Europe’s most dynamic digital innovation ecosystems, the ETH Zurich Campus Heilbronn (www.heilbronn.ethz.ch) will bring together researchers, students, industry, and society to explore bold ideas, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, educate and inspire student talents, and develop solutions for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age – shaping innovation with excellence, responsibility, and impact.

The Department of Computer Science (D-INFK; www.inf.ethz.ch) at ETH Zurich invites applications for a tenured faculty position in Generative AI in Visual Computing. The new professor is anchored in computer science and visual computing and will lead an internationally high‑profile research and teaching programme focused on the development of foundational models and systems for generating, understanding, and interacting with visual and multimodal content and environments. Relevant research areas include, but are not limited to, generative models for images, video, and 3D content; multimodal and world models; neural rendering; simulation and animation; and digital, intelligent characters.

The successful candidate is expected to provide academic leadership by establishing, managing, and continuously advancing a high-impact research group; co‑developing and implementing an internationally visible and innovative educational programme grounded in modern teaching approaches; contributing to teaching (in English) and to the supervision of students and early‑career researchers; actively collaborating with academic, industrial, and societal partners in Germany, Switzerland, and internationally, while maintaining close ties with ETH Zurich in Switzerland; engaging in knowledge and technology transfer activities.

Ideal candidates are inspired by the unique opportunity to join ETH Zurich in Heilbronn from the outset and help shape an open, collaborative, and integrity‑driven campus culture aligned with the values and strategic vision of ETH Zurich.

ETH Zurich is an equal opportunity and family-friendly employer, values diversity, and is responsive to the needs of dual-career couples.

Please apply online: www.facultyaffairs.ethz.ch 

Applications should include a covering letter; a curriculum vitae; a list of publications; three statements on a) research, b) teaching, c) leadership; descriptions of the three most important achievements; and a certificate of the highest degree. Please note that the covering letter should be formally addressed to the President of ETH Zurich, Prof. Dr. Joël Mesot. The closing date for applications is 30 September 2026.