PhD Position in Advanced Bioelectronic & Electrical Conversion Research

PhD Position in Advanced Bioelectronic & Electrical Conversion Research

100%, Basel, fixed-term

A World-Class Research Environment at the Nexus of Biology, Engineering, and Physical Sciences

The Biotechnology and Bioengineering group, led by Prof. Dr. Martin Fussenegger at the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) of ETH Zurich in Basel, invites exceptional candidates to apply for a PhD position in pioneering projects at the intersection of synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and bioelectronics.

The D-BSSE is ETH Zurich's first truly interdisciplinary research department, uniting theoretical and experimental biology with advanced bioengineering. It fosters close collaborations with leaders in materials science, physics, and chemistry to drive transformative advances in systems biology, biotechnology, and synthetic biology. Situated in Basel, Switzerland, at the heart of the BioValley—a tri-national region that hosts 40% of the global life sciences industry and numerous major pharmaceutical companies—the D-BSSE offers a unique environment for high-impact translational research with unparalleled access to academic and industrial expertise.

Project Background

Advancing the Frontiers of Bioelectronics and Synthetic Biology

Our group integrates state-of-the-art synthetic biology with advanced nanotechnology and electrogenetic interfaces to engineer human cells for next-generation bioelectronic medicine. We aim to design programmable cells that respond to electrical, electromagnetic, acoustic, and biochemical cues, achieving wireless, real-time control of therapeutic protein expression and metabolic regulation. Leveraging innovative platforms such as:

• Direct-current actuated regulation
• Electromagnetic programming of wireless expression
• Closed-loop systems

we aspire to translate these technologies into clinically relevant, minimally invasive therapies for cancer, metabolic, neurodegenerative, autoimmune, and infectious diseases.

Job Description

• PhD projects will combine catalyst engineering, computational simulation, bioelectrode device fabrication, and electrical engineering to develop bioelectronic interfaces enabling closed-loop programming of cellular behavior and real-time monitoring of metabolic activity.
• There will also be opportunities to design novel bioelectronic implants and develop specialized control software.

Profile

• We are seeking highly motivated applicants with a background in physics, materials science, or chemistry.
• Ideally, candidates should have expertise in bioelectronics or software simulations, or a strong willingness to acquire it, alongside solid knowledge of electrochemistry and materials chemistry.
• Candidates should be eager to collaborate closely with molecular biologists and bioengineers and demonstrate a strong academic record with the ambition to pursue a career in industrial R&D or entrepreneurship.

Workplace

The PhD position will be located at ETH Zurich's Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering in Basel, Switzerland, a vibrant city with a strong focus on life sciences.

We Offer

• Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which supports your professional development while actively contributing to positive change in society.
• We are committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
• You can expect numerous benefits including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension options.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Our commitment to sustainability drives us to consistently work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

To apply, please apply online using the form below. 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 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections globally to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.