Organisation/Company: ETH Zürich
Research Field: Biological sciences, Engineering
Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)
Country: Switzerland
Application Deadline: 5 Oct 2025 - 21:59 (UTC)
Type of Contract: Temporary
Job Status: Full-time
Hours Per Week: 41
Funding: Not funded by an EU programme
Job related to Research Infrastructure: No
Offer Description PhD Opening in Bioengineering: Microfluidic in-vitro Barrier Models for Bacterial Lung and Bladder Infections
The Bio Engineering Laboratory at the Department of Biosystems of ETH Zurich in Basel is inviting applications for a PhD position in Engineering of Microfluidic in-vitro Barrier Models for Bacterial Lung and Bladder Infections. We seek a highly motivated and enthusiastic PhD student to work in a highly international environment in Basel, Switzerland.
This project is part of a large National Competence Center of Research (NCCR) “Antiresist”, involving clinicians, academic, and industrial partners across multiple disciplines. The project involves developing a microfluidic platform to study bacterial lung and bladder infections and test antibacterial drugs. The platform includes culturing advanced in-vitro barrier models and exposing them to bacteria and drugs. Various analysis methods such as fluorescence microscopy, mass spectroscopy, TEER, and permeability assays are used to monitor barrier status and viability.
The candidate will further develop this platform, focusing on culturing transwell-based lung and bladder organoid models in collaboration with infection biologists from the University of Basel. The platform will be used to study bacterial infection mechanisms, antimicrobial resistance, and evaluate treatment strategies, with an aim for translational applications.
Profile
Ideal candidates should have:
A solid background in microengineering, including plastic fabrication for microfluidics
Skills in CAD design and simulation tools (e.g., COMSOL)
Experience in cell biology, in-vitro culture methods, and bioassays
Experience with confocal microscopy and image analysis
Experience with barrier models and microbiological techniques is a strong advantage. Fluency in English, strong communication skills, and a proactive attitude are essential.
We offer
The opportunity to work with impact at ETH Zurich, supporting your professional growth and societal contribution
Facilities include a state-of-the-art cleanroom, engineering and biological testing equipment, and biosafety facilities. The project collaborates within the AntiResist consortium, providing expertise in lung and bladder systems and bacterial pathogens.
Application should include:
A CV
A motivation statement
Academic transcripts
Applications must be submitted through the online portal; email or postal applications are not accepted. For more information, contact amanzhol.kurmashev@bsse.ethz.ch .
ETH Zurich is a leading university in science and technology, fostering innovation and excellence in research and education, with a diverse international community.
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