PhD Candidate in Biofluid Sampling Technologies for Localized Physiological Measurements

PhD Position in Biofluid Sampling Technologies for Localized Physiological Measurements (SDC19)

Location: Zurich, fixed-term, 100%

ENDOTRAIN is a Horizon Europe Doctoral Training Network dedicated to transforming the diagnosis and management of adrenal disorders through cutting-edge digital tools. ENDOTRAIN will train a new generation of interdisciplinary experts who merge clinical endocrinology, artificial intelligence, data science, engineering, ethics, and law into the integrated field of digital endocrinology. Interested in joining the team?

ETH Zürich is one of Europe’s foremost technical universities, located in the heart of Switzerland. The PhD candidate will be positioned at the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering and the Department of Health Sciences and Technology, offering a unique interdisciplinary blend of cutting-edge research in engineering, health, and technology.

Project Background

This project is embedded in Work Package 2 of the ENDOTRAIN network, which will innovate, develop, and test novel data acquisition and aggregation technologies for physiological measurements. This PhD project will focus on the development of micromachined platforms for minimally invasive and localized access to biofluids (e.g., interstitial fluid (ISF) or in muscle tissue), enabling the direct and continuous sampling and analysis of metabolites, hormones, and other markers. This research has the potential to transform diagnostic and monitoring strategies in sports science, rehabilitation, and muscle-related diseases. The PhD candidate will be co-hosted by the Human-centered Sensing Laboratory (Prof. Andreas Güntner) and the Laboratory of Exercise and Health (Prof. Katrien de Bock).

Job Description

The candidate should work full-time on the project and must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Switzerland for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately prior to their recruitment date. The student will be enrolled in the structured PhD programme of the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering or the Department of Health Sciences and Technology. Participation in the interdisciplinary training of the ENDOTRAIN network is mandatory, including workshops, retreats, transferable skills courses, and cohort-wide meetings across Europe.

Specific Tasks May Include:

• Design and fabricate advanced microfabricated systems (e.g., microneedle, implantables, microfluidic) capable of precise spatial sampling of biofluid or insertion into tissue.
• Investigate concepts for minimal tissue disruption and high analyte recovery efficiency.
• Quantify analyte concentration dynamically during different physiological states in mouse models and humans.
• Develop models for local production, metabolism, and diffusion of analytes between blood, ISF, and tissue.

Secondments:

• University of Bergen (NO): Validation of sampling strategy
• University Hospital Zurich (CH): Testing of sampler on humans

Profile

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with:

• A Master's degree (MSc or equivalent) in Biomedical Engineering, Physiology, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Strong interest in translational health technologies.
• Excellent command of written and spoken English.
• Good communication skills and capacity for interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Ideally, knowledge in microfabrication in cleanrooms, biocompatible materials, and/or implantables.

Applicants must fulfill eligibility criteria for Swiss-based PhD positions and be willing to participate in training activities across Europe.

Starting Date: Before August 2026

Workplace

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer, providing excellent working conditions in a vibrant environment.

We Offer

ETH Zurich offers:

• Competitive salary according to Swiss National Science Foundation regulations.
• Full social security coverage in Switzerland.
• Travel and secondment budget included.
• Opportunities for international networking, industry exposure, and career development.

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. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your application. Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. Please ensure your application includes the following documents:

• Cover letter detailing your research achievements and interests.
• Detailed CV.
• Transcripts of all degrees, including ranking information (in English).
• Names and contact information of at least three references.
• Representative published research work (papers, thesis if possible).

Informal inquiries may be directed to Prof. Andreas Güntner (andregue@ethz.ch). More information on the involved research groups can be found at Human-centered Sensing Laboratory | ETH Zurich and Laboratory of Exercise and Health | ETH Zurich.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe and forging connections worldwide, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.