PhD Candidate in Cell Mechanobiology / PhD Candidate in Cell Mechanobiology

PhD Position in Cell Mechanobiology

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Mechanobiology of Cells and Tissues team is seeking a full-time (100%) doctoral candidate to investigate the role of the glycocalyx in cell mechanotransduction. Our research focuses on:

• Advancing the understanding of mechanotransduction in 3D environments
• Designing hydrogel-based 3D scaffolds with tunable properties
• Creating 3D disease models and drug screening platforms, particularly for skin tissue models such as fibrosis

We are part of the Tibbitt group, located in the Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory.

Project Background

The glycocalyx, a dense sugar coat composed of glycopolymers tethered to or shed from the cell surface, is believed to influence cell adhesion, inflammation, and cancer. However, its direct interaction with mechanotransduction pathways remains unclear. This project aims to determine how different conformations of the glycocalyx modulate cell mechanotransduction. Additionally, we will explore how metabolic pathways that influence glycocalyx synthesis can indirectly affect cell mechanosensitivity, which may have implications for diseases associated with inflammatory and metabolic processes.

Job Description

As a PhD student, you will:

• Conduct biological and physical characterization of glycopolymers in various cell types and tissue samples
• Design and implement molecular or genetic interventions to modify the glycocalyx
• Apply mechanical stimulation to cells to activate mechanotransduction pathways
• Develop methods to control cellular metabolic states
• Present your research through posters and presentations to the scientific community

Additionally, you will have responsibilities related to laboratory duties and opportunities to engage in teaching activities within the group.

This position is funded for four years at 100% employment and will be supervised by Dr. Céline Labouesse. Admission to the doctoral program at D-MAVT is required.

Profile

We are looking for candidates who are:

• Curious and resourceful individuals with a passion for interdisciplinary science and experimental work, motivated to address mechanistic questions in mechanobiology
• Academically excellent, demonstrating a professional work attitude and a proactive, self-driven work ethic
• Fluent in English (oral and written), with a willingness to collaborate in a highly interactive, international team
• Holders of a MSc degree in Molecular Sciences, Life Sciences, Bioengineering, or related fields
• Knowledgeable in cell biology and mechanobiology, with at least 6 months of relevant laboratory experience preferred

Additionally, applicants should be familiar with at least two of the following techniques:

• Cell culture
• Tissue histology and immunostaining
• High-resolution imaging (fluorescence or electron microscopy)
• Gene and protein expression assays
• Size exclusion chromatography
• Mechanical stimulation of cells

Workplace

Your role will be situated within the Tibbitt group at the Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory, part of the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering at ETH Zurich. Our lab comprises a diverse and international team focused on engineering advanced polymeric materials for various biomedical and industrial applications.

We Offer

In this interdisciplinary research environment, you will benefit from:

• A supportive and collaborative work culture
• Flexible experimental planning and working hours
• A motivating and engaged research environment
• Freedom and support to explore innovative research ideas

The position is based in the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering (D-MAVT) at ETH Zurich, situated in Zurich’s Zentrum Campus. ETH Zurich is a prestigious institution recognized globally for its excellence in science and engineering.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity and valuing diversity within our working and learning environment. We strive to create a fair and open atmosphere where everyone can thrive. Sustainability is fundamental to our values as we work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. We look forward to receiving your application, including the following information as a single PDF:

• A statement of interest outlining your motivation for this position and your primary scientific achievements to date (max. 2 pages)
• Your CV
• Diplomas and course transcripts
• The contact details of two or more references

For further information about the Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory, visit our website. For inquiries regarding the position, please contact Dr. Labouesse at clabouesse@ethz.ch (no applications).

Expected start date: August or September 2026.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology, recognized for its outstanding education and cutting-edge research. With over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, we foster an environment that encourages independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we address global challenges through collaborative research and development.