Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcheress

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

Position Details

Location: Basel

Employment Rate: 100%

Type: Fixed-term

About the Programme

The highly competitive Bio-Engineering Systems for Therapeutics (BEST) postdoc programme, a key part of the Next-gen Bioengineers initiative, is jointly operated by the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering at ETH Zurich and Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED). This programme emphasizes the development of innovative tools and methods to address current challenges and create solutions for future medical advancements and therapeutics.

Project Background

Viral vector-based gene therapies are increasingly being explored for the treatment of genetic diseases by targeting specific cells. However, enhancing the target cell specificity of viral vectors, known as tropism, remains a critical focus in gene therapy. Viral infections commence when a virus binds to cell surface receptors at specific thermodynamic and kinetic on/off rates at equilibrium, which can limit the optimization of viral tropism. This collaborative project aims to investigate novel methods to manipulate this equilibrium, thus controlling the on/off rates of viral vectors in proximity to target cells, tissues, or organoids to promote viral infection.

We will employ multiparametric approaches to quantify interactions (on/off rates) of targeted viruses with specific regions of cellular systems, including cultured cells, organoids, tissues, and organs. Our goal is to characterize the parameters that shift the thermodynamic and kinetic on/off rates and thereby improve viral tropism. This quantitative approach seeks to provide new avenues for engineering and controlling the on/off equilibrium of viral vectors, surpassing traditional genetic engineering methods for optimizing transgene cassettes or capsids. Ultimately, we anticipate that this research will enhance transduction efficiency and viral tropism, paving the way for effective viral gene therapies.

Job Description

This position involves independent work on an interdisciplinary and challenging project at the highest scientific levels, based in two locations: the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering at ETH Zurich and the Department of Ophthalmology at pRED, both situated in Basel.

Profile

• PhD degree or equivalent in biology, biotechnology, biophysics, biomedicine, biomedical engineering, biochemistry, gene-based delivery methods, pharmacy, or related disciplines
• Desire to receive training in ophthalmology, neurobiology, biophysics, bionanotechnology, gene-based methods, virus engineering, and cell and tissue biology
• Interest in interdisciplinary research across the Roche and ETH Zurich campuses in Basel
• Experience with cell biology, nanotechnology, gene therapy, and biophysics is advantageous
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team; strong organizational skills and reliability
• Excellent track record in scientific research, communication, and publishing
• Highly capable of working independently in collaborative environments
• Fluency in both oral and written English is essential

Workplace

You'll join a vibrant and innovative research community, with access to the excellent facilities and expertise at the Roche and ETH Zurich campuses.

What We Offer

• Engaging and innovative research collaboration within the Biosystems Engineering for Medical Translation framework
• Co-supervision by principal investigators from ETH Zurich and Roche
• Comprehensive access to campus facilities and expert resources
• Support program benefits for networking and career development
• Regular seminars and joint symposia at ETH Zurich and Roche
• Fully funded fellowship for an initial period of 2 years

Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture, advocating for equality of opportunity and respecting the rights and dignity of all staff and students. We are committed to sustainability and continually work towards a climate-neutral future.

Apply Online

We invite you to apply online using the form below with 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 a leading global university focusing on science and technology. We are renowned for our outstanding education, pioneering fundamental research, and effective transfer of knowledge into society. Our diverse community of over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries fosters independent thinking and excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while building connections worldwide, we work collaboratively to address the global challenges of today's and tomorrow's society.