Postdoc in Virus Control / Postdoc in Virus Control

Postdoc Position - Developing Novel Ways to Control Viruses for Targeted Infection of Cellular Systems

100%, Basel, Fixed-Term

The highly competitive Bio-Engineering Systems for Therapeutics (BEST) postdoc programme, part of the Next-gen Bioengineers initiative, is operated jointly by the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering of ETH Zurich and Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED). This programme focuses on the development of new tools and methods to address existing problems and offer solutions for future challenges in medical translation and therapeutics.

Project Background

Viral vector-based gene therapies are extensively explored in preclinical and clinical settings for the treatment of genetic diseases by infecting targeted cells. However, elaborating on the target cell specificity of viral vectors, known as tropism, remains a crucial endeavor in the field of gene therapy. Viral infection is initiated when a virus binds to cell surface receptors with specific thermodynamic and kinetic on/off rates at equilibrium, which may limit the enhancement of viral tropism. In this collaborative project, we aim to explore novel strategies to adjust this equilibrium, allowing us to control the on/off rates of viral vectors brought in proximity to target cells, tissues, and organoids to promote infection.

We will apply multiparametric approaches to quantify the interactions (on/off rates) of specific viruses with desired regions of cellular systems such as cultured cells, organoids, tissues, and organs. This will enable us to characterize the parameters that influence thermodynamic and kinetic on/off rates and viral tropism. Ultimately, our quantitative approach will open new pathways to engineer and control the equilibrium of viral vectors, moving beyond mere genetic engineering optimization of the transgene cassette or capsid. We anticipate that this study will enhance transduction efficiency and refine viral tropism for successful viral gene therapy.

Job Description

This position involves independent work on an interdisciplinary and challenging project at the highest scientific levels in two distinct locations: the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, and the Department of Ophthalmology at pRED, Roche. Both departments are located in the city of Basel.

Profile

• PhD degree or equivalent in biology, biotechnology, biophysics, biomedicine, biomedical engineering, biochemistry, gene-based delivery methods, pharmacy, or other related disciplines.
• Interest in training in ophthalmology, neurobiology, biophysics, bionanotechnology, gene-based methods, virus engineering, and cell and tissue biology.
• Commitment to interdisciplinary research at the Roche and ETH Zurich campuses in Basel.
• Experience with cell biology, nanotechnology, gene therapy, and biophysics is advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team; excellent organizational skills and high reliability.
• Proven track record in scientific work, communication, and publishing.
• Exceptional capacity to work independently in highly collaborative teams.
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English are essential.

Workplace

The workplace will be situated across two esteemed institutions which foster innovation and excellence in research.

We Offer

• Exciting and innovative collaborative research within the framework of Biosystems Engineering for Medical Translation.
• Co-supervision by principal investigators from ETH Zurich and Roche.
• Full access to facilities and expertise at the Roche and ETH Zurich campuses.
• Support programme benefits, including networking and career development opportunities.
• Regular seminars and joint symposia at ETH Zurich and Roche.
• Fully funded fellowship for an initial duration of 2 years.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below, which should include the following documents as a single PDF:

• A letter of motivation.
• CV, including a list of publications.
• Two letters of recommendation.
• A brief statement of research interests (1500 characters).
• A copy of your original doctoral degree certificate.

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 the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries consider our university a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections all over the world to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.