Dr. Daniel A. Richards and Professor Andrew J. deMello from 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 involves collaboration with a multi-institutional consortium, including ETHZ, CSEM, the Swiss Tropical Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), and the National Centre for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (NCTLD) in Tbilisi, Georgia. We are looking for a candidate with a background in CRISPR-Cas and/or electrochemical biosensing; however, individuals with experience in biosensing or analytical chemistry are also encouraged to apply. This is a four-year position that will require time spent at both ETHZ and CSEM.
Tuberculosis (TB) results in approximately 1.25 million deaths each year, making it the deadliest infectious disease worldwide. Sadly, TB primarily affects low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where 98% of global TB cases occur, leading to devastating consequences. The disease's spread has led to significant antibiotic misuse, resulting in a troubling rise in drug resistance—surpassing 50% in the most affected regions for recurrent TB infections.
Early diagnosis can prevent most TB fatalities, yet nearly a quarter of all TB cases go undiagnosed. Additionally, the rise of drug resistance in TB is partly due to a lack of efficient methods for identifying resistance markers, which can hinder proper antibiotic use. Unfortunately, existing diagnostic technologies fall short of effectively diagnosing TB and its associated drug resistances, especially at the point-of-care (PoC). Few technologies can quickly and accurately diagnose TB while simultaneously identifying resistances, and those that do are often large and prohibitively expensive, limiting their use in LMICs. Moreover, they typically rely on sputum samples, which can be challenging to collect 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 be combined with novel electrochemical reporters, enabling miniaturization and providing quantitative disease readouts. Leveraging the facilities and expertise of CSEM, we aim to integrate these technologies into a cost-effective cartridge and reader system for PoC deployment. The research team will receive support from the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute and the National Center for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease in Georgia, which will validate the technology through patient sample analysis and a small pilot study, offering the candidate opportunities for travel and fieldwork.
These assays will address a crucial gap in the current TB treatment pathway and enhance care for millions of underserved patients, particularly in LMICs. By enabling rapid TB diagnosis, this technology will facilitate accurate and timely medical interventions, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and alleviating the burden on healthcare systems. Furthermore, by focusing on common drug resistance markers, this innovation will bolster antimicrobial stewardship and serve as a vital tool in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
We seek 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. Overall experience, expertise, and ambition will be considered in lieu of specific research disciplines. Successful candidates will join an international research team and must be highly motivated and passionate about science, engineering, and global health.
The workplace will provide a multicultural and multidisciplinary research environment with attractive hiring conditions, access to state-of-the-art equipment and resources, and strong support for career progression.
ETH Zurich champions an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity and valuing diversity. We are committed to ensuring a fair and open environment in which everyone can thrive. Sustainability is integral to our mission, as we continuously work toward a climate-neutral future.
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
For further inquiries, please contact Dr. Daniel Richards (daniel.richards@chem.ethz.ch) or Dr. Loïc Burr (loic.burr@csem.ch).
ETH Zurich is one of the leading global universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for excellent education, pioneering fundamental research, and the practical application of new knowledge benefiting society, over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries choose ETH as a platform for independent thought and a pursuit of excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe yet connected worldwide, we collaborate to confront today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.
Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland