A World-Class Research Environment at the Nexus of Biology, Engineering, and Physical SciencesThe Biotechnology and Bioengineering group led by Prof. Dr. Martin Fussenegger at the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) of ETH Zurich in Basel invites exceptional candidates to apply for a PhD position in pioneering projects at the intersection of
synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and bioelectronicsThe D-BSSE is ETH Zurich's first truly interdisciplinary research department uniting theoretical and experimental biology with advanced bioengineering and fostering close collaborations with leaders in materials science, physics, and chemistry to drive transformative advances in systems biology, biotechnology, and synthetic biology. Situated in Basel, Switzerland, at the heart of the
BioValley, a tri-national region that hosts 40% of the global life sciences industry and numerous major pharmaceutical companies, the D-BSSE offers a unique environment for high-impact translational research with unparalleled access to academic and industrial expertise.
Project background Advancing the Frontiers of Bioelectronics and Synthetic BiologyOur group integrates state-of-the-art synthetic biology with advanced nanotechnology, and electrogenetic interfaces to engineer human cells for next generation bioelectronic medicine, designing programmable cells that respond to electrical, electromagnetic, acoustic and biochemical cues to achieve wireless, real-time control of therapeutic protein expression and metabolic regulation. Leveraging innovative platforms such as
direct-current-actuated regulation, electromagnetic programming of wireless expression, and
closed-loop systems, we aim to translate these technologies into clinically relevant, minimally invasive therapies for cancer, as well as metabolic, neurodegenerative, autoimmune, and infectious diseases.
Job description
- PhD projects will combine catalyst engineering, computational simulation, bioelectrode device fabrication, and electrical engineering to develop bioelectronic interfaces enabling closed-loop programming of cellular behaviour and real-time monitoring of metabolic activity
- There will also be opportunities to design novel bioelectronic implants and develop specialized control software
Profile
- We are seeking highly motivated applicants with a background in physics, material science, or chemistry
- Ideally with expertise in bioelectronics or software simulations, or a strong willingness to acquire it, alongside solid knowledge of electrochemistry and materials chemistry
- Candidates should be eager to collaborate closely with molecular biologists and bioengineers and demonstrate a strong academic record with the ambition to pursue a career in industrial R&D, or entrepreneurship
We offer
- Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
- We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university
- You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits
> Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich We value diversity and sustainability In 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. Applications must be submitted exclusively through our online application portal and should include:
- CV
- Complete academic transcripts
- A list of publications
- A motivation letter
- Two letters of recommendation
- A brief research plan (1 page)
Applications sent via e-mail or post will not be considered. For further information visit our group
website, consult our
published work, or contact Professor Martin Fussenegger (
martin.fussenegger@bsse.ethz.ch).
