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). This programme emphasizes the development of innovative tools and methods to address existing problems and devise solutions for future challenges in medical translation and therapeutics.

Project Background

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

In this collaborative project, we aim to discover new ways to adjust this equilibrium, thus allowing control over the on/off rates of viral vectors brought in proximity to target cells, tissues, or organoids to promote viral infection. Our approach will utilize multiparametric methods to quantify the interaction (on/off rates) of a specific set of viruses with desired regions of cellular systems such as cultured cells, organoids, tissues, and organs. The goal is to characterize the parameters that influence thermodynamic and kinetic on/off rates and ultimately enhance viral tropism. Through this quantitative analysis, we propose to enable engineering and control of the on/off equilibrium of viral vectors, moving beyond traditional methods of genetically modifying viral vectors.

We anticipate that our findings will create new possibilities to improve transduction efficiency and viral tropism in the context of successful viral gene therapy.

Job Description

This position requires independent work on a highly interdisciplinary and challenging project at the highest scientific levels, located at two esteemed institutions: the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering at ETH Zürich and the Department of Ophthalmology at pRED, Roche. Both departments are situated in the vibrant City of Basel.

Profile

• PhD degree or equivalent in biology, biotechnology, biophysics, biomedicine, biomedical engineering, biochemistry, gene-based delivery methods, pharmacy, or related disciplines.
• Interest in training in ophthalmology, neurobiology, biophysics, bionanotechnology, gene-based methods, virus engineering, and cell and tissue biology.
• Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research within the campuses of Roche and ETH Zurich in Basel.
• Experience with cell biology, nanotechnology, gene therapy, and biophysics is advantageous.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team, demonstrating excellent organizational skills and reliability.
• Strong track record in scientific work, communication, and publishing.
• Proven ability to work independently in highly collaborative teams.
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English are essential.

Workplace

The successful candidate will work in a dynamic and innovative environment, conducive to personal and professional growth.

We Offer

• Engaging and innovative collaborative 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 campuses of Roche and ETH Zurich.
• Support programme benefits including networking and career development opportunities.
• Regular seminars and joint symposia at ETH Zurich and Roche.
• Fully funded fellowship for an initial duration of 2 years.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture where equality of opportunity is promoted, diversity is valued, and a respectful working and learning environment is maintained. We also prioritize sustainability, consistently striving towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please include 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).
• Copy of your original doctoral degree certificate.

Note: 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 excellent education and cutting-edge research, we facilitate the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our institution promotes independent thinking and fosters 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.