Postdoctoral Researcher in Development of a Microfluidic Platform for Diagnosis of Sepsis / Postdoctoral Researcheress in Development of a Microfluidic Platform for Diagnosis of Sepsis

Postdoc Position in Development of a Microfluidic Platform for Diagnosis of Sepsis

100%, Basel, fixed-term

We are engaged in the development of lab-on-chip technology (microfluidic technology) for applications in the life sciences and biomedicine. Our interdisciplinary approach encompasses the design and manufacturing of miniaturized platforms and their optimization for biochemical assays and analytical procedures.

For a third-party funded project, running for four years, we are offering a position for a postdoctoral fellow.

Project Background

The project RadiantDx is a multidisciplinary collaborative effort that addresses the diagnosis of sepsis, a severe health condition often presenting with nonspecific symptoms such as high fever. To assist medical professionals in making informed treatment decisions, we aim to develop a miniaturized system for the rapid diagnosis of sepsis. This innovation will help prevent unnecessary antibiotic administration, ultimately leading to improved patient survival and recovery. 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 leverage microfluidic technology, sequencing, and rapid data analysis to tackle this challenge.

Within the Bioanalytics Group, a PhD student and a postdoctoral fellow will collaborate on various aspects of the microfluidic platform and sample preparation.

Job Description

The postdoctoral fellow will work alongside a PhD student 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
• Write reports and present results in research consortium meetings
• Coordinate work with partners of the research consortium

Profile

• PhD degree in fields related to microfluidics, microsystems engineering, biomedical engineering, or interdisciplinary study programs.
• Candidates with a background in biology, bioengineering, biotechnology, or microbiology with experience in method and technology development are also encouraged to apply.
• The integration of biological and technological aspects is paramount in our group and this project. A suitable candidate should be eager to learn and improve novel methods, have an openness to different research disciplines, and possess strong communication skills across disciplines.
• Excellent communication skills in English and a collaborative mindset are essential.

Workplace

Details about the workplace will be provided during the interview process.

We Offer

We provide the successful candidate with:

• An intellectually challenging role within an inspiring interdisciplinary team
• Engaging work alongside computer scientists and clinicians/microbiologists
• The opportunity to develop technology and methods that meet patient needs
• Support for personal skill development, including writing, presentation, and project management
• Opportunities to work with and supervise students
• Participation in international conferences

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture. We promote equal opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value; we continually strive for a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below.

For your application, please include:

• A letter describing your background, interests, and motivation
• Your CV
• Certificates (transcripts for Master's degree, certificate of doctoral degree)
• Two reference letters

For further information about the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, please visit our website. Inquiries regarding the position can be directed to Prof. Petra Dittrich at petra.dittrich@bsse.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, renowned for its excellent education, groundbreaking fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university champions independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, we are dedicated to developing solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.