PhD Candidate in Development of a Microfluidic Platform for Diagnosis of Sepsis

PhD Position in Development of a Microfluidic Platform for Diagnosis of Sepsis

100%, Basel, fixed-term

We are advancing lab-on-chip technology (or microfluidic technology) for applications across the life sciences and biomedicine. Our interdisciplinary approach encompasses the design and manufacturing of miniaturized platforms as well as their optimization for biochemical assays and analytical procedures.

For a third-party funded project, running for four years, we are offering a PhD position and a postdoctoral position.

Project Background

The project RadiantDx is a multidisciplinary and collaborative initiative aimed at addressing the challenging diagnosis of sepsis. Sepsis is a severe health condition characterized by nonspecific symptoms, such as high fever. To aid clinicians in determining the most effective courses of treatment, our goal is to develop a miniaturized system for the rapid diagnosis of sepsis. This innovation seeks to prevent unnecessary administration of antibiotics and enhance patient survival and recovery. In collaboration with researchers from the Institute of Medical Microbiology at the University of Zurich, the Department of Informatics at ETH Zurich, and several other partners, we aim to merge microfluidic technology, sequencing, and swift data analysis to tackle this challenge.

Within the Bioanalytics Group, the PhD student and postdoctoral fellow will collaborate on various aspects of the microfluidic platform and sample preparation.

Job Description

The PhD student and postdoctoral fellow will engage in the following tasks:

• Design and manufacture a microfluidic platform
• Develop, optimize, and test biological assays
• Perform imaging, data analysis, and interpretation
• Prepare the platform for use in clinical settings
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals
• Participate actively in meetings of both the group and the research consortium
• Interact and collaborate with other members of the group and consortium

Profile

• Master's degree in microsystems engineering, biomedical engineering, or interdisciplinary study programs
• Candidates with a background in biology, bioengineering, biotechnology, or microbiology, along with a strong interest in technology development, are encouraged to apply
• The combination of biological and technological facets is central to our group and this project. Candidates should demonstrate a strong willingness to learn and improve innovative methods, be open to various research disciplines, and possess the ability to communicate across these fields
• Strong communication (in English) and teamwork skills

Workplace

The successful candidate will be part of an intellectually stimulating environment situated within an interdisciplinary team at ETH Zurich.

We Offer

We provide the successful candidate with:

• An intellectually challenging position in an inspiring interdisciplinary team atmosphere, along with the prospect of obtaining a PhD degree from ETH Zurich
• Multifaceted, applied work in collaboration with computer scientists and clinicians/microbiologists
• Development of technology and methods closely aligned with patient needs, from bench to bedside
• Advanced training options in various related fields
• Opportunities for personal skill development
• Encouragement to participate in international conferences

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage equality of opportunity, value diversity, and strive to create a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. For more information on how we ensure a fair and open environment that fosters growth, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are committed to working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below, which should include the following documents:

• Letter describing your background, interest, and motivation
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Certificates (transcripts from Bachelor and Master degrees)
• Two reference letters

For further information about the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, please visit our website. To learn more about the Bioanalytics Group, click here.

If you have questions regarding the position, please reach out to Prof. Petra Dittrich at petra.dittrich@bsse.ethz.ch (no applications).

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

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 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while forging connections across the globe, we collaborate to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.