Welcome, Michal Friedman
Michal Friedman will take up her position as Tenure Track Assistant Professor in December. In this interview, she talks about why she decided to pursue an academic career, what goals she'd like to achieve at ETH Zurich, and recommends a piece of pop culture, which revolves around a very famous computer scientist.
In September 2024, Michal Friedman was appointed as Tenure Track Assistant Professor of Computer Science at ETH Zurich. She previously worked as a Postdoc at the Systems Group of ETH Zurich. Her research at the interface between programming languages, systems and modern hardware has contributed to the performance analysis of persistent memory for data processing, and to improving system performance.
Professor Friedman, what sparked your interest in computer science?
My journey into computer science was quite unexpected. I began my studies in industrial engineering and management, where I was required to take an introduction to computer science course, followed by an object-oriented programming course the next semester. That’s when everything changed – I completely fell in love with it! Programming felt like solving intricate puzzles and using creativity in ways I hadn’t experienced before. I remember thinking, “How has this been hidden from me for so long?” That realisation inspired me to switch my major to computer science, and honestly, it was the best decision I’ve ever made.
Why did you decide to pursue an academic career?
I believe academia provides the ideal environment for making a meaningful impact. It combines creativity and problem-solving with the pursuit of groundbreaking research. For me, academia is truly a dream career – it involves advancing science through research, along with learning, teaching and mentoring. This combination of unique roles is incredibly fulfilling and rewarding.
What factors contributed to your decision in favour of ETH Zurich?
The decision to join ETH Zurich was influenced by several key factors. First and foremost, ETH’s reputation as one of the world’s leading universities speaks for itself. Its commitment to excellence in research, teaching and innovation is truly inspiring. I am excited by the opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers and engage with a diverse and talented group of students from across the globe. The values of ETH Zurich strongly resonate with my own, and I am delighted to be part of such a dynamic institute, contributing to its mission of advancing science and driving innovation.
“With the rapid progression of the hardware era, it’s crucial to simplify the work of programmers and software designers by giving them the right instruments so they can build provably correct and efficient solutions. ”Professor Michal Friedman
What aspects or principles are particularly important to you as a professor?
I really care for excellence in research while having close relations to the industry, ensuring practical impact. Another key priority for me is to educate and prepare students for the real world by fostering critical thinking and equipping them with the skills they need to succeed. I also strongly believe in the social responsibility aspect that aims to address pressing global challenges and inspire students to care about making a positive impact on the world.
What goals would you like to pursue at ETH Zurich?
My goal is to lead research that has a meaningful impact on both industry and society by establishing a strong group that attracts worldwide collaborations and students. Along with my research, I aim to educate the next generation of computer scientists, fostering their curiosity and excitement about the field while providing them with the tools and knowledge so they can reach their full potential.
What is your field of research?
My research lies at the intersection of systems, programming languages and concurrency. I’m passionate about emerging technologies and focus on creating fundamentals for systems that leverage these technologies, spanning both hardware and software approaches. With the rapid progression of the hardware era, it’s crucial to simplify the work of programmers and software designers by giving them the right instruments so they can build provably correct and efficient solutions. Additionally, I am deeply driven to develop sustainable systems to address the urgent need for environmentally conscious computing.
Which aspect of your research area fascinates you the most?
What excites me most about my research is the limitless potential for innovation. I enjoy working across the full stack and looking at the intersections of software and hardware. Each emerging technology presents unique challenges, and I find great satisfaction in designing elegant solutions that not only push the boundaries of what’s possible but also provide solid guarantees for the systems built on top of them.
“I believe that when a lecturer genuinely cares about both the subject and the students it creates enthusiasm and curiosity and a deeper connection to the material.”Professor Michal Friedman
Where do you see the social benefit of your research?
The social benefit of my research is rooted in its focus on developing more sustainable systems and reducing energy consumption. This is particularly impactful in large-scale systems, where even small improvements can lead to significant benefits. Additionally, by creating tools that simplify the work of programmers and enable the development of correct and performant systems, my research can help minimise both the time and resources required to build complex systems.
What do you like the most about your role as a lecturer?
The thing that excites me the most is to be able to spark excitement for the subject in students. I believe that when a lecturer genuinely cares about both the subject and the students it creates enthusiasm and curiosity and a deeper connection to the material. I feel privileged to have the chance to make such a meaningful impact.
What piece of advice would you like to give to your students?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. In academia, and life, asking questions is one of the most powerful tools for growth and understanding. There is no such thing as a “bad” question – only those that remain unasked. By being curious and open, you not only gain knowledge but also uncover new perspectives. Your academic journey is a chance to discover not just the subject matter, but also yourself and your broader purpose. Trust the process.
“There is no such thing as a “bad” question – only those that remain unasked. ”Professor Michal Friedman
Is there a film, podcast, book or anything else in the field of technology or computer science that you would like to recommend?
One film I can recommend is “The Imitation Game”. It tells the story of Alan Turing and the invention of the Turing machine, showcasing the power of perseverance and innovation in the face of seemingly impossible challenges. I watched it during the early stages of my academic journey, right when I was studying the Turing machine. The timing felt particularly special. It’s a great reminder of how groundbreaking ideas can shape the world in ways we might never expect.
What activities do you pursue in your free time?
I really love nature and enjoy doing outdoor sports such as bouldering, hiking, diving and skiing. Being surrounded by beautiful landscapes while engaging in these activities always inspires me and opens my mind. I’m also an avid reader, especially of books on philosophy, psychology and medicine.