We invite applications for a fully funded PhD position in the Zindel Lab (Department of Biology, ETH Zurich), in close collaboration with the Tibbitt Lab (Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich). This interdisciplinary project investigates how the immune system responds to implanted materials, aiming to develop strategies that improve tissue integration and patient outcomes. The work will combine in vivo biology and advanced imaging with materials science and polymer engineering.
Project backgroundThe Hydrophobic Effect as a Danger Signal in Foreign Body BiologyImplantable medical devices such as joint replacements, hernia meshes, and intraocular lenses are central to modern medicine. Yet, many implants still trigger inflammation and scarring, shortening their functional lifetime.
This PhD project addresses a fundamental question: Does hydrophobicity act as a universal immune danger signal? Using animal models, primary human cell systems, and multiphoton microscopy, you will explore the molecular and cellular mechanisms of foreign body reactions. In parallel, you will collaborate with engineers to design and test microgels with tunable surface properties, linking materials chemistry to immune recognition and tissue repair.
Job description - Perform experimental biology in the Zindel Lab. Specifically, you will learn surgical in vivo mouse models and perform cutting-edge intravital multiphoton imaging.
- Fabricate and characterize new biomaterials in the Tibbitt Lab. Specifically, you will develop methods to fabricate and characterize microgels with a range of degrees of hydrophilicity with diameters on the orders of 10s of microns.
- Investigate the innate immune responses to biomaterials at cellular and molecular levels to different biomaterial properties.
- Develop skills in soft material fabrication and characterization, mechanical characterization, chemical formulation, bioconjugate chemistry, fluorophore labeling, and fluorescence imaging.
- Integrate biological and engineering insights to develop mechanistic models of implant integration.
Profile - Strong passion for both biomedical research and materials engineering, either a biologist eager to explore materials science or a materials scientist excited to dive into immune biology.
- Master's degree in a relevant field is required.
- Strong interest in immunology, tissue regeneration, and translational medicine.
- Prior experience with animal models is an advantage; a willingness to perform animal work is essential.
- Motivation to learn materials fabrication and characterization through collaboration.
- Enthusiasm for working in an interdisciplinary, international research environment.
We offer - A home base in the Zindel Lab (D-BIOL, Campus Hönggerberg) with supervision by Prof. Zindel, a former surgeon-scientist, focusing on immunology and tissue regeneration.
- Close collaboration with the Tibbitt Lab (D-MAVT, Campus Zentrum) and co-supervision by Prof. Tibbitt, providing complementary expertise in macromolecular engineering and characterization.
- A supportive, interdisciplinary training environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities in imaging, biology, and soft material fabrication.
- Integration into SKINTEGRITY.CH, a nationwide network of scientists, engineers, and clinicians.
- The opportunity to contribute to the development of next-generation medical implants designed to improve millions of lives.
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