Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoctoral Researcher - 3D Cell-Based Tissue Simulation Framework

100%, Basel, fixed-term

ETH Zurich is a world-leading university dedicated to advancing science and technology. This position is based in the Computational Biology (CoBi) group led by Prof. Dagmar Iber, which uses advanced imaging and computational tools to develop data-driven, mechanistic models of biological systems. Located in Basel, the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) provides a vibrant research environment at the intersection of biology, engineering, and medicine, surrounded by leading pharmaceutical and biotech companies.

Project Background

Understanding tissue development through experiments alone is challenging. Cell-based simulations are powerful tools for studying how individual cells contribute to tissue structure and dynamics. The Iber group has developed SimuCell3D, an efficient and scalable 3D tissue simulation framework written in C++, enabling the simulation of tissues with up to 100,000 deformable cells—including extracellular matrix and cavities—within a single day [Runser, et al., 2024, Nat Comput Sci 4, 299-309 (2024); Tweetorial].

SimuCell3D represents a significant advance in modeling tissue mechanics, cell polarization, and complex morphogenetic processes.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to:

• Develop and integrate numerical solvers for reaction-diffusion systems
• Extend the existing C++ codebase with additional biophysical features
• Apply the framework to morphogenetic problems based on imaging data
• Run large-scale simulations on ETH Zurich's high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructure
• Perform model calibration, parameter screening, and validation
• Compare simulations to experimental data and prepare high-quality visualizations

Profile

We welcome applications from candidates with:

• A PhD in computational science, computational biology, applied mathematics, physics, or a related field
• Strong, documented experience in C++ programming and solid software engineering skills; applicants should clearly demonstrate these in their application materials
• Familiarity with numerical methods for PDEs (e.g., finite difference or finite element methods)
• Experience with tissue simulations and/or HPC is a plus
• Interest in biophysics, developmental biology, or cell signaling (prior expertise not required)
• A structured, independent, proactive, and collaborative working style

We Offer

• A fully funded position with an internationally competitive salary and excellent benefits, in accordance with ETH Zurich guidelines
• Professional development opportunities, including support for grant applications (e.g., SNSF Ambizione) and participation in conferences and workshops
• Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure, including ETH's high-performance computing (HPC) clusters
• A dynamic, interdisciplinary, and collaborative research environment
• Flexible working arrangements, including the option for partial remote work
• The position is initially offered for one year, with the possibility of annual renewal for up to six years

We Value Diversity

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 in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• Letter of Motivation
• CV
• Diplomas & Transcripts
• Contact details of 2 referees

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Further information about the group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Iber by e-mail: Show e-mail (no applications).

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