# Otmar Hilliges > researcher **Wikidata**: [Q57450498](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q57450498) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/otmar-hilliges ## Summary Otmar Hilliges is a German computer scientist and researcher who currently serves as a professor at ETH Zurich since 2013. He has made significant contributions to the field of human-computer interaction throughout his career, transitioning from research at Microsoft to academic leadership in Switzerland. ## Biography - Born: 1979 - Nationality: German (inferred from his education at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München) - Education: Studied at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München - Known for: Research in human-computer interaction - Employer(s): ETH Zurich (2013-2025, with progression from assistant to associate professor), Microsoft Research UK (2010-2013, as postdoctoral researcher and researcher) - Field(s): Computer science, human-computer interaction ## Contributions Otmar Hilliges has established himself as a prominent researcher in human-computer interaction through his academic work and industry research. At ETH Zurich, he has contributed to advancing the understanding of human-computer interaction interfaces through his professorship, having progressed from assistant professor (2013-2018) to associate professor (2018-present). Prior to joining ETH, Hilliges worked at Microsoft Research in the UK (2010-2013) where he served as both a postdoctoral researcher and researcher. His academic lineage is notable, having been advised by Andreas Butz at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and subsequently advising doctoral student Tobias Nägeli, establishing a clear line of research in human-computer interaction. ## FAQs ### Q: What positions has Otmar Hilliges held at ETH Zurich? A: Otmar Hilliges joined ETH Zurich as an assistant professor in March 2013, was promoted to associate professor in June 2018, and continues to be employed at the institution through 2025 and beyond. ### Q: Where did Otmar Hilliges receive his education? A: Otmar Hilliges was educated at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München in Germany, where he also completed his doctoral studies under advisor Andreas Butz. ### Q: What health condition has Otmar Hilliges disclosed? A: Otmar Hilliges has publicly disclosed that he has myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, a condition he was diagnosed with in 2023. ## Why They Matter Otmar Hilliges represents a significant figure in the field of human-computer interaction, bridging industry research at Microsoft with academic leadership at one of Europe's premier technical universities. His career progression from postdoctoral researcher to professor demonstrates his growing influence in shaping the future of human-computer interaction research and education. Through his role at ETH Zurich, Hilliges has contributed to training the next generation of researchers in this field, while his work at Microsoft provided practical research experience that connects academic theory with real-world applications. His academic lineage further extends his impact, as he both continues the research tradition of his advisor while mentoring his own students. ## Notable For - Academic career progression at ETH Zurich from assistant professor (2013-2018) to associate professor (2018-present) - Previous research experience at Microsoft Research UK (2010-2013) - Academic connections in human-computer interaction lineage (advisor: Andreas Butz; doctoral student: Tobias Nägeli) - Public disclosure of living with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome since 2023 - Continued employment at ETH Zurich beyond 2025 ## Body ### Early Education and Doctoral Studies Otmar Hilliges was born in 1979 and pursued his higher education at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München in Germany. During his academic journey at this institution, he completed his doctoral studies under the supervision of Professor Andreas Butz, who is recognized as a specialist in human-computer interaction. This educational foundation established his research trajectory in the field of human-computer interaction. ### Research at Microsoft Prior to joining academia, Hilliges gained valuable industry research experience at Microsoft Research in the United Kingdom. His tenure at Microsoft spanned from February 2010 to February 2013, during which time he served first as a postdoctoral researcher (2010-2011) and subsequently as a researcher (2012-2013). This period provided him with practical research experience outside the academic environment, complementing his theoretical knowledge. ### Academic Career at ETH Zurich In March 2013, Hilliges transitioned to academia by joining ETH Zurich as an assistant professor. He held this position until May 2018 when he was promoted to associate professor. His continued employment at ETH Zurich extends through at least 2025, demonstrating his sustained contribution to the institution and the field of computer science. Throughout his tenure at ETH, he has maintained his research focus on human-computer interaction while also engaging in teaching and mentorship activities. ### Personal Health Journey In 2023, Hilliges publicly disclosed that he has been living with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. This disclosure came to public attention through official announcements regarding his employment at ETH Zurich in 2025, indicating his continued commitment to his academic responsibilities despite this health challenge. His openness about his condition has raised awareness about chronic fatigue syndrome in academic and professional settings. ## References 1. Integrated Authority File 2. Mathematics Genealogy Project 3. [Source](http://orcid.org/0000-0002-5068-3474) 4. [Source](https://ethrat.ch/de/ernennungen-juli-25/#:~:text=Prof.%20Dr.%20Otmar,und%20alles%20Gute) 5. [ORCID Public Data File 2021](https://pub.orcid.org/v3.0/0000-0002-5068-3474/employment/6336777) 6. [ORCID Public Data File 2021](https://pub.orcid.org/v3.0/0000-0002-5068-3474/employment/1276831) 7. [ORCID Public Data File 2021](https://pub.orcid.org/v3.0/0000-0002-5068-3474/employment/674893) 8. [ORCID Public Data File 2021](https://pub.orcid.org/v3.0/0000-0002-5068-3474/employment/674890)