Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcheress in Biological and Molecular Systems on CMOS Sensing/Actuating Platforms

Postdoctoral Position: Biological and Molecular Systems on CMOS Sensing/Actuating Platforms

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Integrated Devices, Electronics, And Systems (IDEAS) Group, led by Prof. Dr. Hua Wang at ETH Zurich, is inviting applications for a postdoctoral position focusing on biological and molecular assays and bio-experiments for bioelectronics and biosensors utilizing CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) integrated circuit (IC) chips.

This position merges molecular and electrochemical assays with cell biology on micro-/nano-electronic devices. The objective is to develop molecular assays (genomics and proteomics), cellular assays, and support experimental work across various CMOS bioelectronics and biosensors projects. Please note that this position is NOT intended for electronic circuits research.

Aside from research activities, the successful candidate will also contribute to teaching the existing graduate-level course "CMOS Electronics for Biological and Molecular Sensing" and mentor PhD, master, and bachelor students.

Project Background

Living cells, such as neurons, function as biological systems exhibiting complex, dynamic, and multi-functional behaviors developed over billions of years. Interfacing with living cells through advanced micro-/nano-electronics opens new avenues for sensing and actuation but necessitates robust biological protocols and stable bioelectronic interfaces.

Simultaneously, biomolecules and their complexes can be probed and controlled using CMOS micro-/nano-electronics, facilitating applications including molecular sensing (DNA/proteins), surface functionalization, electrochemical reactions, and molecular synthesis.

Our ETH IDEAS group has established numerous generations of CMOS cellular/molecular platforms featuring dense arrays of electrodes and multi-modality active pixels for sensing and actuation. Some of these platforms focus on long-term culture and sensing of biological systems, such as neurons, human stem-cell-derived cells, and animal-based cells, while others emphasize molecular or chemical functionalities, including electrochemical measurements and on-chip molecular processes.

Central to these diverse projects is a requirement for bio-experimental expertise in both cellular and molecular/electrochemical workflows. This postdoctoral position will support research across these applications and contribute to the development and operation of CMOS bioelectronics and biosensors within the ETH IDEAS group.

Job Description

You will engage in molecular and cellular assays and systems for CMOS bioelectronics and biosensor platforms. Please note that this position is NOT for CMOS electronic circuit research.

Research directions and responsibilities include:

• Long-term culture and maintenance of neurons and other cell-based assays on CMOS integrated circuit (IC) chips.
• Working with human stem-cell-derived cells, animal-based cells, and other cellular systems for extended-time cell culture and interfacing experiments on CMOS.
• Development and maintenance of stable and reproducible cell-microelectrode interfaces on CMOS.
• Designing and executing molecular and electrochemical experiments on CMOS micro-/nano-electrode arrays, including surface functionalization and electrodeposition.
• Implementing molecular and chemical workflows on CMOS IC chips, including electrochemical reactions and molecular synthesis.
• Conducting biological and molecular characterization using microscopy, fluorescence-based assays, and electrochemical measurements.
• Collaborating closely with CMOS electronics researchers to support experimental design and platform operation.
• Contributing to teaching activities, including lectures, exercises, or laboratory components related to cellular/molecular biology.
• Presenting results at internal meetings and international conferences.
• Preparing peer-reviewed publications.
• The position allows for scientific freedom to shape experimental workflows and contribute to multiple projects within a highly interdisciplinary research environment at ETH Zurich.

Profile

• PhD degree or equivalent in cell biology, molecular biology, neuroscience, chemistry, electrochemistry, bioengineering, biomedical engineering, or closely related disciplines.
• Experience in long-term cell cultures, particularly neuronal cultures.
• Experience with cellular assays using human stem-cell-derived cells or animal-based cells.
• Strong experimental background in molecular chemistry, electrochemistry, or related chemical systems.
• Experience with bioelectronic platforms, microelectrode arrays, or Organ-on-Chip systems is an advantage.
• Strong interest in interdisciplinary research involving biological and molecular systems on CMOS bioelectronics and biosensors.
• Enthusiasm for contributing to teaching and mentoring.
• Excellent work ethic, scientific rigor, and ability to foster collaborative team dynamics.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively.
• Outstanding organizational skills and reliability.
• Proven track record in scientific work, communication, and publications.
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English are essential.

Workplace

The position is based in Zurich, and ETH Zurich offers a vibrant interdisciplinary research environment.

We Offer

• A new research frontier characterized by its highly interdisciplinary nature at the intersection of biology, molecular systems, and CMOS bioelectronics/biosensors.
• A collaborative research environment within ETH Zurich and extended partnerships with UZH, EPFL, EMPA, PSI, and industry in Switzerland.
• Access to state-of-the-art biological and chemical laboratories, equipment, and CMOS IC platforms.
• Opportunities to gain teaching experience in an interdisciplinary graduate-level course.
• Support benefits including professional networking and career development opportunities.
• Regular seminars and symposia within the ETH Zurich research ecosystem.
• A fully funded position for an initial period of 1-2 years, with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance and available funding.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture and equality of opportunity. We value diversity and nurture an environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we foster a fair and open environment facilitating growth and flourishing. Sustainability is core to our mission, and we actively work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below, which should include the following documents:

• Cover letter outlining your motivation and experience.
• Concise CV.
• Diploma and certificates.
• Five of your best publications.

For more information about the IDEAS Group, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to ideas-jobs@iis.ee.ethz.ch (no applications).

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich stands as one of the world's premier universities specializing in science and technology, acclaimed for its excellent education, groundbreaking research, and effective transfer of knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to be a hub for independent thought and an inspiring environment for excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, we forge connections globally to collaboratively address today's and tomorrow's challenges.