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 our understanding of mechanotransduction in 3D
• Designing hydrogel-based 3D scaffolds with tunable properties
• Developing 3D disease models and drug screening platforms, specifically targeting skin tissue models, including fibrosis

This position is embedded within the Tibbitt group in the Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory.

Project Background

The glycocalyx is a complex layer of glycopolymers that forms a dense sugar coat on the cell surface. It is believed to play significant roles in cell adhesion, inflammation, and cancer; however, its direct interaction with mechanotransduction pathways is not well understood. This project aims to determine whether and how different conformations of the glycocalyx modulate cell mechanotransduction. Additionally, due to the dependence of glycocalyx synthesis on metabolic pathways, we will explore how metabolic switches may indirectly affect cell mechanosensitivity through alterations in the glycocalyx, with implications for diseases associated with inflammatory and metabolic components.

Job Description

As a PhD student, your responsibilities will include:

• Conducting biological and physical characterization of glycopolymers in various cell types and tissue samples
• Designing and implementing molecular/genetic interventions to modify the glycocalyx
• Executing mechanical stimulation on cells to activate mechanotransduction pathways
• Proposing and employing methods to control cellular metabolic states
• Presenting your findings through posters and presentations to the scientific community

You will also contribute to lab duties and may assist with teaching activities within the group. This position is funded for four years at 100% employment, under the supervision of Dr. Céline Labouesse. Admission to the doctoral program at D-MAVT is a requirement for this position.

Profile

We are looking for candidates who are:

• Curious and resourceful, with a keen interest in interdisciplinary science and experimental work
• Academically excellent, with a professional attitude and a proactive work ethic
• Fluent in English (oral and written) and team-oriented in a highly interactive, international environment
• Holders of an MSc degree in Molecular Sciences, Life Sciences, Bioengineering, or related fields
• Possessing solid knowledge of cell biology and mechanobiology, as well as relevant lab experience (minimum of 6 months preferred)

Additionally, familiarity with at least two of the following techniques is essential:

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

Workplace

The position is based in the Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory at the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering at ETH Zurich. Our lab consists of a highly interdisciplinary and international team of motivated researchers focused on engineering and applying advanced polymeric materials for a diverse range of biomedical and industrial applications.

We Offer

We provide:

• An interdisciplinary research environment
• A supportive and collaborative workplace
• Flexibility in experimental planning and working hours
• A motivating and engaged research lab
• Opportunities for independent exploration of new ideas

This position is located in the Zentrum Campus in Zurich, Switzerland. ETH Zurich is a leading global institution in science and technology, consistently ranked among the best universities worldwide. Zurich offers a vibrant community with access to numerous outdoor activities, cultural events, and an exceptional scientific network.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is dedicated to promoting an inclusive culture, fostering equality, and ensuring respect for the rights and dignity of all staff and students. We are committed to sustainability and actively working toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Please submit your application by April 30th, 2026, including the following as a single PDF:

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

For questions about the position, please contact Dr. Labouesse at clabouesse@ethz.ch (no applications). Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Expected start date: August or September 2026.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's foremost universities specializing in science and technology. Known for its exceptional education, cutting-edge research, and effective knowledge transfer into society, ETH promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence in its diverse community of over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries.

Join us in developing solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow!