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 engaged in the development of lab-on-chip technology, also known as microfluidic technology, for various applications within the life sciences and biomedicine. Our interdisciplinary approach encompasses the design and manufacturing of miniaturized platforms, optimizing them for biochemical assays and analytical procedures.

For a third-party funded project spanning four years, we are offering a PhD position.

Project Background

The project RadiantDx is a multidisciplinary initiative focused on addressing the diagnosis of sepsis. Sepsis is a critical health condition characterized by unspecific symptoms such as high fever. To assist healthcare professionals in making informed treatment decisions, we aim to develop a miniaturized system for rapid sepsis diagnosis. This technology will help prevent unnecessary antibiotic administration, ultimately improving patient survival and recovery rates. Collaborating with researchers from the Institute of Medical Microbiology at the University of Zurich, the Department of Informatics at ETH Zurich, and various other partners, we will tackle this challenge by integrating microfluidic technology, sequencing, and fast data analysis.

Within the Bioanalytics Group, a PhD student will collaborate with a postdoctoral fellow on different facets of the microfluidic platform and sample preparation.

Job Description

The selected PhD student will focus on the following responsibilities:

• Design and manufacture a microfluidic platform
• Develop, optimize, and test biological assays
• Perform imaging, data analysis, and interpretation
• Prepare the platform for clinical applications
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals
• Actively participate in group and research consortium meetings
• Collaborate with other group members and consortium partners

Profile

• Master’s degree in microsystems engineering, biomedical engineering, or related interdisciplinary study programs.
• Candidates with backgrounds in biology, bioengineering, biotechnology, or microbiology, with a keen interest in technology development, are also encouraged to apply.
• Strong disposition to learn and enhance novel methods, with openness to various research disciplines.
• Effective communication (in English) and teamwork skills.

Workplace

Join us in a dynamic and inspiring environment fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.

We Offer

We provide the successful candidate with:

• An intellectually stimulating position within an interdisciplinary team, with the opportunity to pursue a PhD degree from ETH Zurich.
• Engaging, applied work within a larger team comprising computer scientists and clinicians/microbiologists.
• The chance to develop technology and methods closely aligned with patient needs.
• Advanced training opportunities in various related fields.
• Support for developing personal skills.
• Encouragement to participate in international conferences.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a work and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we continuously strive toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• Letter describing your background, interest, and motivation
• CV
• Certificates (transcripts for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
• Two reference letters

For further information about the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, please visit our website. For inquiries regarding the position, please contact 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 a world-leading university specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our exceptional education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thinking in an inspiring environment of excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections globally to tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow.