Research Engineer for Visual Programming

About this position

Research Engineer for Visual Programming

In the AST Lab, led by Prof. Zhendong Su, at ETH Zurich's Department of Computer Science (D-INFK) we advance and reimagine the science of software construction, working towards systems that help people turn their creative ideas into working software.

Duration: 3 to 6 months (depending on workload)

Workload: 50-100%

Salary: according to ETH guidelines for scientific staff

Project background

Programming remains dominated by textual syntax, imposing cognitive load on novices and widening the gulf between code and behavior. Existing visual systems help with syntax but often mirror abstract syntax trees, offer weak modularity, and rarely scale to real-world software. The Belvue project developed in the AST Lab aims to advance visual programming through a new visual programming paradigm that centers on direct manipulation of program state, live feedback, and example-centric workflows.

Job description

We are looking for a research engineer to help us develop the Belvue language. You will implement language features and developer tooling and work closely with the language designer.

Job Description

Implement or improve features in the visual language program editor (which is bootstrapped in Belvue)

Add new features or maintain the language implementation in C++

Contribute to the user interface and language design

Profile

Strong programming skills, ideally in C++

Experience with building user interfaces, designing reusable software components and working with large software projects

Deep understanding and curiosity about different programming paradigms and languages (ideally familiarity with several programming languages including a functional language)

Good software engineering practices

Structured, reliable, and able to work independently within a small team

BSc or MSc in Computer Science or a related field (or equivalent experience); recent graduates are welcome to apply

Experience with web technologies is a plus

Strong communication skills in English

We offer

You will work in a small, innovative research team at ETH Zurich, exploring novel programming paradigms and testing out new ideas. We offer flexible, self-managed working hours and a relaxed, collaborative atmosphere where your ideas directly influence the project's direction. You will also be part of the vibrant research community of the Department of Computer Science.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainabilityIn 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 with the following documents:

Resume

Cover letter (not AI generated)

Any relevant portfolio or project samples

Further information about the AST Lab can be found on our

website

. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Theo Weidmann,

theo.weidmann@inf.ethz.ch

(no applications).

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.

About ETH ZürichETH 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.