Postdoctoral Researcher in Biological and Molecular Systems on CMOS Sensing/Actuating Platforms

Postdoctoral Position: Biological and Molecular Systems on CMOS Sensing/Actuating Platforms

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Integrated Devices, Electronics, And Systems (IDEAS) Group, led by Prof. Dr. Hua Wang at ETH Zurich, is seeking a postdoctoral researcher focusing on biological and molecular assays and bio-experiments for bioelectronics and biosensors using CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) integrated circuit (IC) chips.

This position will merge molecular and electrochemical assays with cell biology on micro-/nano-electronic devices. The objective is to develop molecular (genomics and proteomics) and cellular assays while supporting experimental work across a range of CMOS bioelectronics and biosensors projects. Please note that this position is NOT focused on electronic circuits research.

In addition to research activities, the successful candidate will contribute to the graduate-level course titled "CMOS Electronics for Biological and Molecular Sensing" and mentor PhD, master's, and bachelor's students.

Project Background

Living cells, such as neurons, function as biological systems with complex, dynamic, and multi-functional behaviors shaped by billions of years of evolution. Interfacing with living cells using advanced micro-/nano-electronics opens up new sensing and actuation opportunities, requiring robust biological protocols and stable bioelectronic interfaces.

In parallel, biomolecules and their complexes can be probed and controlled using CMOS micro-/nano-electronics, paving the way for applications in molecular sensing (DNAs/proteins), surface functionalization, electrochemical reactions, and molecular synthesis.

The ETH IDEAS group has developed generations of CMOS cellular/molecular platforms equipped with dense arrays of electrodes and multi-modal active pixels for sensing and actuation. These platforms focus on long-term culture and sensing of biological systems, including neurons and human stem-cell-derived cells, along with molecular or chemical functionalities like electrochemical measurements and on-chip molecular processes.

A central requirement for these diverse projects is expertise in bio-experimental techniques, including both cellular and molecular/electrochemical workflows. This postdoctoral position is designed to support research across these applications and contribute to the development and operation of CMOS bioelectronics and biosensors within the ETH IDEAS group.

Job Description

You will engage in molecular and cellular assays and systems for CMOS bioelectronics and biosensor platforms. Please note that this position is NOT for CMOS electronic circuit research.

Research Directions and Responsibilities Include:

• Long-term culture and maintenance of neurons and other cell-based assays on CMOS integrated circuit (IC) chips.
• Work with human stem-cell-derived cells, animal-based cells, and other cellular systems for extended-time cell culture and interfacing experiments on CMOS.
• Development and maintenance of stable and reproducible cell-microelectrode interfaces on CMOS.
• Design and execution of molecular and electrochemical experiments on CMOS micro-/nano-electrode arrays, including surface functionalization and electrodeposition.
• Implementation of molecular and chemical workflows on CMOS IC chips, including electrochemical reactions and molecular synthesis.
• Biological and molecular characterization using microscopy, fluorescence-based assays, and electrochemical measurements.
• Collaboration with CMOS electronics researchers to support experimental design and platform operation.
• Contribution to teaching activities, including lectures, exercises, or laboratory components related to cellular/molecular biology.
• Presentation of results at internal meetings and international conferences.
• Preparation of peer-reviewed publications.
• The position offers scientific freedom to shape experimental workflows and contribute to multiple projects within a highly interdisciplinary research environment at ETH Zurich.

Profile

• PhD degree or equivalent in cell biology, molecular biology, neuroscience, chemistry, electrochemistry, bioengineering, biomedical engineering, or closely related disciplines.
• Experience in long-term cell cultures, particularly neuronal cultures.
• Experience with cellular assays using human stem-cell-derived cells and/or animal-based cells.
• Strong experimental background in molecular chemistry, electrochemistry, or related chemical systems.
• Experience with bioelectronic platforms, microelectrode arrays, or Organ-on-Chip systems is an advantage.
• Strong interest in interdisciplinary research involving biological and molecular systems on CMOS bioelectronics and biosensors.
• Enthusiasm for teaching and mentoring students.
• Excellent work ethics, scientific rigor, and ability to foster collaborative team cultures.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent organizational skills and high reliability.
• Proven track record in scientific work, communication, and publications.
• Fluency in oral and written English is essential.

Workplace

The successful candidate will join a dynamic research environment at ETH Zurich, renowned for its focus on advancing knowledge and innovation in science and technology.

We Offer

• A new research frontier that blends biology, molecular systems, and CMOS bioelectronics/biosensors.
• A collaborative research atmosphere within ETH Zurich and strong partnerships with UZH, EPFL, EMPA, PSI, and industry in Switzerland.
• Access to modern biological and chemical laboratories, top-tier equipment, and CMOS IC platforms.
• Opportunities to gain teaching experience in an interdisciplinary graduate-level course.
• Support benefits, including professional networking and career development opportunities.
• Regular seminars and symposia within the ETH Zurich research ecosystem.
• A fully funded position for an initial period of 1-2 years, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

At ETH Zurich, we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equal opportunities, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. We encourage you to visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about our commitment to a fair and open workplace that enables everyone to grow and thrive. Additionally, sustainability is a core value; we continually strive for a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• Cover letter outlining your motivation and experience.
• Concise CV.
• Diploma and certificates.
• Five of your most notable publications.

For additional information about the IDEAS Group, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to ideas-jobs@iis.ee.ethz.ch (no applications).

Please note that 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 known for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct application of new knowledge in society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thought and provides an inspiring environment for excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe while maintaining global connections, we work together to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.