PhD Candidate in Development of a Microfluidic Platform for Diagnosis of Sepsis / 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 life sciences and biomedicine. Our interdisciplinary approach encompasses the design and manufacturing of miniaturized platforms optimized 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 collaboration addressing the diagnosis of sepsis, a severe health condition characterized by nonspecific symptoms such as high fever. To assist healthcare professionals in determining treatment options, we aim to develop a miniaturized system for rapid diagnosis of sepsis, reducing unnecessary antibiotic administration and enhancing patient survival and recovery. Collaborating 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 tackle this challenge by combining microfluidic technology, sequencing, and rapid data analysis.

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

Job Description

The PhD student and postdoctoral fellow will work together on 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 group and research consortium meetings
• Interact and collaborate with other group members and consortium partners

Profile

• Master’s degree in microsystems engineering, biomedical engineering, or interdisciplinary study programs.
• Candidates with backgrounds in biology, bioengineering, biotechnology, or microbiology, who have a strong interest in technology development, are also encouraged to apply.
• The combination of biological and technological aspects is essential in our group and this project. Candidates should show a strong willingness to learn and improve novel methods, be open to various research disciplines, and communicate effectively across them.
• Good communication skills in English and the ability to work collaboratively in a team.

Workplace

The successful candidate will work in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment that nurtures innovative ideas and collaborative projects.

We Offer

We provide the successful candidate with:

• An intellectually stimulating position within an inspiring interdisciplinary team and the opportunity to obtain a PhD degree from ETH Zurich
• A diverse and applied work experience alongside computer scientists and clinicians/microbiologists
• A journey from bench to bedside, developing technologies and methods that directly address patient needs
• Advanced training opportunities in various related fields
• Personal skills development
• Encouragement to participate in international conferences

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We advocate for equal opportunities, celebrate diversity, and cultivate a work environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we maintain a fair and supportive environment conducive to growth and success. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are actively committed to achieving a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below.

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further information regarding the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, please visit our website. For inquiries about the position, contact Prof. Petra Dittrich at petra.dittrich@bsse.ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Known for our exceptional education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and impactful transfer of new knowledge into society, we are home to over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Our university fosters independent thinking in an environment that inspires excellence. Centrally located in Europe and fostering global connections, we collaborate to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's challenges.