ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology 
Basel, Switzerland Offer Summary
ETH Zurich’s Bioanalytics Group in Basel seeks a Doctoral Student to develop an organ-on-chip platform for biosystems research. This full-time, fixed-term position focuses on designing and manufacturing microfluidic devices to create vascularized tissue models. The role involves developing biological assays, performing time-lapse microscopy, and analyzing data to investigate cancer metastasis mechanisms and drug translocation. Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in microsystems or biomedical engineering, with strong skills in microfluidics and interdisciplinary collaboration. The position offers intellectual challenges within an inclusive team, opportunities for international conferences, and advanced training. Applications require a CV, reference letters, and certificates submitted via the online portal. ETH Zurich emphasizes diversity, sustainability, and equality of opportunity in its working environment.
Generated from stored offer content. Always confirm details in the official posting.
Project Description
The Bioanalytics Group at ETH Zürich in Basel (Switzerland) is developing so-called lab-on-chip technology (or microfluidic technology) for applications across the life sciences and biomedicine. Our interdisciplinary approach includes the design and manufacturing of miniaturized platforms and their optimization for biochemical assays and analytical procedures. To strengthen our team, we are offering a Doctoral Position for developing an organ-on-chip model system.
Project background
Organ-on-chip systems, also known as microphysiological systems, are promising platforms for investigating disease development and evaluating potential treatments. Their miniaturized design enables the reproducible and controlled formation of human tissues with specific functions, as well as the parallelized study of biological processes.
In the Bioanalytics Group, we are developing vascularized tissue models to investigate how cells, cell-secreted molecules, and drugs cross the endothelial barrier to reach surrounding tissues and how compounds translocate from tissue into the blood stream.
As part of a project focused on understanding the mechanisms underlying cancer metastasis, we are looking for a motivated Doctoral student interested in experimental research at the interface of engineering and biology.
Job description
- Design and manufacture a microfluidic platform
- Develop, optimize and test biological assays
- Perform imaging (time-lapse microscopy), data analysis and interpretation
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals
- Participate actively in group meetings and collaborative research discussion meeting
- Interact and collaborate with other members of the group and collaboration partners
Profile
- Master`s degree in microsystems engineering, biomedical engineering or interdisciplinary study programmes
- Candidates with background in biology, bioengineering, biotechnology, material sciences or microbiology, with a strong interest in technology development, are welcome to apply as well
- Experiences in the field of microfluidics
- The combination of biological and technological aspects is central in our group and in this project
- A possible candidate should have strong disposition to learn and improve novel methods, should be very open to different research disciplines and should be able to communicate across disciplines
- Good communication (in English) and teamwork skills
We offer
- An intellectually challenging position in the inspiring atmosphere of an interdisciplinary team, and the prospect to obtain a Doctoral degree from ETH Zurich
- Applied work in a multidisciplinary team
- Advanced training in different related fields and participation at international conferences is highly encouraged
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.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:
- A letter describing your background and interests
- CV
- Two reference letters
- Copies of certificates
Further information about the Department and the Institute can be found on the following Websites: D-BSSE and Bioanalytics Group . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Petra S. Dittrich, petra.dittrich@bsse.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.