PhD Student in Development of a Microfluidic Platform for Diagnosis of Sepsis / PhD Studentess 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 at the forefront of developing lab-on-chip technology (or microfluidic technology) for various applications in life sciences and biomedicine. Our interdisciplinary approach encompasses the design, manufacturing, and optimization of miniaturized platforms tailored for biochemical assays and analytical procedures.

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

Project Background

The RadiantDx project is a multidisciplinary initiative focused on the diagnosis of sepsis—a serious health condition characterized by nonspecific 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 innovative approach will help prevent unnecessary antibiotic administration, thereby enhancing patient survival and recovery rates. 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 are tackling this challenge by merging microfluidic technology, sequencing, and rapid data analysis.

Within the Bioanalytics Group, both the PhD student and the 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 a clinical setting
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals
• Actively participate in group meetings and research consortium meetings
• Collaborate and interact 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, who have a keen interest in technology development, are also encouraged to apply.
• A strong ability to integrate biological and technological aspects is essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a willingness to learn, adapt, and communicate across various disciplines.
• Good communication skills in English and effective teamwork abilities are required.

Workplace

Join us in a collaborative and innovative environment that supports groundbreaking research.

We Offer

For the successful candidate, we provide:

• An intellectually stimulating position within an inspiring interdisciplinary team, with the opportunity to earn a PhD degree from ETH Zurich
• Diverse and applied work in collaboration with computer scientists and clinicians/microbiologists
• From bench to bedside: develop technologies and methods that address real patient needs
• Advanced training options in various related fields
• Personal skill development
• Encouragement to participate in international conferences

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our core values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture. We promote equal opportunity, value diversity, and ensure a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. For more information about our commitment to inclusivity, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is also a fundamental principle for us as we strive toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

If you're interested, please apply online using the form below.

We look forward to receiving your application, which should include the following documents:

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

For more information about the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, please visit our Website. For details about the group, check out the Bioanalytics Group.

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Petra Dittrich at petra.dittrich@bsse.ethz.ch (please note, no applications will be accepted via email).

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich ranks among the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are acclaimed for our exceptional education, pioneering fundamental research, and the direct application of new knowledge to societal needs. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and an inspiring environment for excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, we forge connections across the globe to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow's challenges.