100%, Basel, fixed-term
We invite applications for a postdoctoral research position focused on the mechanotyping of complex cellular systems. This role combines cutting-edge nanotechnological tools, advanced cell biology, and systems-level quantitative biology. The project aims to uncover how mechanical properties, forces, and physical phenotypes integrate with molecular networks to regulate the function of complex cellular systems across multiple biological scales.
Cells are mechanically heterogeneous systems composed of proteins, membranes, and compartments with distinct physical properties. They continuously sense and respond to various mechanical cues from their environment, including adhesion, stiffness, tension, shear, pressure, and confinement. These cues are integrated across wide spatial and temporal scales, from nanometers to tissues, to regulate collective cellular behavior. Mechanobiology seeks to understand how cells, tissues, and organoids perceive, process, and remodel mechanical signals, influencing fundamental biological functions such as homeostasis, growth, differentiation, migration, development, and apoptosis.
Despite significant advances, a comprehensive understanding of how mechanical information is generated and integrated within complex multicellular systems remains elusive. Progress in the field necessitates the development of engineered multicellular models as mechanical reference systems, new tools for quantitatively measuring and manipulating mechanics across scales, and theoretical frameworks to interpret mechanobiological complexity. This postdoctoral project aims to tackle these challenges by combining model systems, advanced mechanical probing, and integrative analysis to elucidate how mechanical properties regulate biological function across molecular, cellular, and multicellular levels, ultimately supporting advances in mechanodiagnostics and mechanomedicine.
You will work at the interface of mechanobiology, nanotechnology, systems biology, and quantitative biology, developing and applying innovative experimental and analytical approaches to characterize cellular mechanical states and their regulatory roles. Research directions include:
The position offers substantial freedom to shape novel experimental pipelines that bridge physical measurements with systems-level biological insight. You will work independently on an interdisciplinary project at the highest scientific levels at the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich in Basel, in collaboration with internationally leading groups in cell, organoid, and computational biology.
The successful candidate will join a vibrant and innovative research team at the ETH Zurich, surrounded by a collaborative environment fostering creativity and new ideas.
In line with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We prioritize equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a respectful working and learning environment for all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about how we create a fair and open environment for all. Sustainability is a core value for us as we continuously strive towards a climate-neutral future.
Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered. If you have questions regarding the position, please direct them to Prof. Dr. Daniel J. Müller at daniel.mueller@bsse.ethz.ch (no applications).
ETH Zurich is among the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and our commitment to transferring new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries choose our university for its promotion of independent thinking and an inspiring environment. Located in the heart of Europe and connected globally, we collaboratively work to create solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.
Location : Fully
Country : Switzerland