PhD Student in In Vitro Diagnostics, CRISPR-Cas / Electrochemistry

PhD Student in In Vitro Diagnostics, CRISPR-Cas / Electrochemistry

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Dr. Daniel A. Richards and Professor Andrew J. deMello, in the Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering at ETH Zürich (ETHZ), along with Dr. Loïc Burr of the Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM), are seeking a PhD student to develop CRISPR-Cas-based electrochemical biosensors for multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MDR-MTB). This project is funded as part of a SNSF BRIDGE Discovery grant, and you will be integrated into a multi-institutional consortium, which includes ETHZ, CSEM, the Swiss Tropical Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), and the National Centre for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (NCTLD) in Tblisi, Georgia.

Project Background

Tuberculosis (TB) claims approximately 1.25 million lives annually, making it the deadliest infectious disease worldwide. Alarmingly, 98% of TB cases are reported in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), resulting in devastating consequences for these populations. The misuse of antibiotics has led to a significant increase in drug resistance, with rates surpassing 50% in some of the most affected areas.

Many TB-related deaths are preventable with early diagnosis; however, nearly a quarter of cases remain undiagnosed. The rise of drug resistance can partially be traced back to inadequate methods for detecting resistance markers, leading to poor antibiotic stewardship. Unfortunately, current diagnostic technologies have proven insufficient for timely TB and drug resistance diagnoses, particularly at the point of care. Few tools exist that can efficiently and accurately identify TB and resistance markers, and the few available options are often large and costly, which are barriers for LMICs. Moreover, these tests frequently depend on sputum samples, which can be challenging to acquire in low-resource settings.

This PhD project aims to develop RPA-CRISPR-Cas assays capable of multiplexing 14 targets for TB and associated drug resistance markers from a single sample. These assays will utilize innovative electrochemical reporters, facilitating miniaturization and offering quantitative disease readouts. To enable deployment at the point of care, we will leverage the facilities and expertise at CSEM to integrate these technologies into a low-cost cartridge and reader system. The research team will be supported by the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute and the National Center for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease in Georgia, who will validate the technology with patient samples and conduct a small pilot study. This role will provide the student with opportunities for travel and hands-on fieldwork.

These assays aim to bridge a crucial gap in the existing TB treatment pathway, bringing improved care to millions of underserved patients, particularly in LMICs. By enabling rapid TB diagnostics, this technology will lead to more accurate and timely medical interventions, improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden on healthcare systems. Additionally, by targeting common drug resistance markers, this technology will enhance antimicrobial stewardship and serve as a powerful tool in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Job Description

• Develop nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) and CRISPR-Cas assays specific for MTB and MDR-MTB.
• Create solid-phase electrochemical reporters for CRISPR-Cas assays.
• Evaluate developed assays using patient-derived samples.
• Engage in protein expression.
• Collaborate closely with academic and industrial project partners to align efforts with broader project objectives.
• Contribute to project management, including financial and time management.
• Present findings at internal project meetings and international conferences.
• Write and publish peer-reviewed articles.

Profile

We invite applications from scientists eager to gain expertise in bioengineering, in vitro diagnostics, and global health. Candidates should possess a Master’s degree in a relevant science or engineering discipline, though overall experience, expertise, and ambition will take precedence over specific research backgrounds. Successful applicants will be part of an international research team and must demonstrate motivation and enthusiasm for science, engineering, and global health.

Ideal candidates will bring:

• A collaborative mindset for thriving in a diverse international environment.
• Focus on project objectives and deliverables.
• A drive to advance research to higher technology readiness levels.
• Effective collaboration skills with various stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.

Workplace

ETH Zürich offers a multicultural and multidisciplinary research environment with attractive hiring conditions and access to cutting-edge equipment and resources. Strong support for career progression is also provided.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture, ensuring equal opportunities and valuing diversity. We strive to maintain a respectful work and learning environment for everyone. Sustainability is a core principle, and we are continuously working toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

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

• A cover letter detailing your motivation and suitability for the position.
• A comprehensive CV and contact information for at least two references.

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

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is among the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology, recognized for its exceptional education, groundbreaking research, and direct application of knowledge for societal benefit. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thought and an inspiring environment for excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, we forge global connections to tackle today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.