Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcheress

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 at ETH Zurich and Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED). The programme focuses on developing new tools and methods to address existing problems and provide solutions for future challenges in medical translation and therapeutics.

Project Background

Viral vector-based gene therapies are extensively explored in preclinical and clinical development for the treatment of genetic diseases by infecting targeted cells. However, improving the target cell specificity of viral vectors, known as tropism, remains a crucial endeavor in the field of gene therapy. Viral infection occurs when a virus binds to cell surface receptors with specific thermodynamic and kinetic on/off rates at equilibrium, which can limit enhancements in viral tropism.

In this collaborative project, we will explore innovative ways to adjust this equilibrium, controlling the on/off rates of viral vectors in proximity to target cells, tissues, or organoids to promote viral infection. Our multiparametric approaches will quantify these interactions and characterize the parameters that influence the thermodynamic and kinetic rates as well as viral tropism. This quantitative methodology will pave the way for engineering and controlling the on/off equilibrium of viral vectors, moving beyond genetic modifications of the transgene cassette or capsid. Ultimately, this study seeks to enhance transduction efficiency and viral tropism for successful gene therapy applications.

Job Description

We seek a candidate to work independently on this interdisciplinary and challenging project at the highest scientific levels across two locations: the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering at ETH Zurich, and the Department of Ophthalmology at pRED, Roche, both situated in 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.
• Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research at the Roche and ETH Zurich campuses.
• Experience in cell biology, nanotechnology, gene therapy, and biophysics is advantageous.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team, coupled with excellent organizational skills and reliability.
• Strong track record in scientific work, communication, and publishing.
• Exceptional capability to work independently in highly collaborative environments.
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English are essential.

Workplace

The position will be based in Basel, a vibrant city offering a rich scientific community and an inspiring setting for research.

We Offer

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

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a respectful working and learning environment for all staff and students. Sustainability is another core value — we actively strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

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

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

Application Deadline: Applications can be submitted until January 5, 2026. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For inquiries regarding the position, please reach out to Prof. Dr. Daniel J. Müller at daniel.mueller@bsse.ethz.ch or Prof. Dr. Sascha Fauser at sascha.fauser@roche.com (no applications).

More information about the Biophysics Group at ETH Zurich D-BSSE and the Division of Ophthalmology at Roche pRED can be found on their respective websites. For additional details about the Next-gen Bioengineers postdoc programme, please visit the programme website.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for our excellent education and cutting-edge research, we facilitate the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 students from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thinking and fosters an inspiring environment aimed at excellence. Positioned in the heart of Europe, we collaborate globally to address both current and future challenges.