Postdoctoral Scientist / Postdoctoral Scientistess in In Vitro Diagnostics, Electrochemistry / Electronic Engineering

Postdoctoral Scientist(s) in In Vitro Diagnostics, Electrochemistry / Electronic Engineering

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Dr. Daniel A. Richards and Professor Andrew J. deMello, from the Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering at ETH Zürich, are seeking two postdoctoral researchers to develop an innovative diagnostic device for multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MDR-MTB). The goal is to create and assess a simple, portable, and affordable device capable of diagnosing MDR-MTB at the point-of-care. This project is funded by a SNSF BRIDGE Discovery grant and entails collaboration with a multi-institutional consortium, including the Swiss Centre for Microelectronics (CSEM), the Swiss Tropical Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), and the National Centre for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (NCTLD) in Tbilisi, Georgia. The first position is intended for individuals with a background in electrochemical biosensing, especially those experienced in integrating molecular biology with electrochemistry. The second position will focus on candidates with expertise in electrical engineering and device development. Both positions are initially fixed-term for 24 months, with a possibility of extension.

Project Background

Tuberculosis (TB) claims the lives of approximately 1.25 million people annually, making it the deadliest infectious disease worldwide. Unfortunately, TB disproportionately affects low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where 98% of global TB cases arise, resulting in devastating consequences. The rise of drug-resistant TB strains has been exacerbated by the overuse of antibiotics, with resistance among recurring TB infections exceeding 50% in severely affected areas.

Early diagnosis is crucial, as most TB deaths could be prevented with timely detection. Regrettably, nearly a quarter of TB cases remain undiagnosed. The rise of drug resistance can also be linked to inadequate methods for identifying resistance markers, leading to poor antibiotic management. Current diagnostic technologies fail to adequately diagnose TB and its associated drug resistances, particularly at the point-of-care. Existing solutions lack the ability to perform quick and accurate diagnoses of TB and concurrent resistances, with available technologies often being large and costly, limiting their availability in LMICs. Furthermore, these technologies depend heavily on sputum samples, which can be challenging to obtain in resource-limited settings.

This project aims to develop an affordable, portable, and rapid diagnostic platform that can multiplex 14 targets for TB and associated drug resistance markers from a single sample. Utilizing a paper-based format, the technology will leverage electrochemical signaling for miniaturization and provide quantitative disease readouts. These tests will be created using a patented technology from ETH Zürich—laser-induced graphenization of cellulose—which is cost-effective, scalable, and rapid, rendering it suitable for point-of-care applications. Moreover, this technology will incorporate novel CRISPR-Cas-based biosensing assays engineered to detect single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) linked to drug resistance. To facilitate point-of-care deployment, we will collaborate with CSEM to integrate these technologies into a highly affordable cartridge and reader system. The research team will receive support and validation from the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute and the National Center for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease in Georgia, who will test the technology using patient samples and conduct a small pilot study.

This device will address a critical gap in the TB treatment pathway, providing care to millions of underserved patients, particularly in LMICs. By enabling swift TB diagnoses, this technology will lead to more accurate and timely medical interventions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and alleviating pressures on healthcare systems. Additionally, by focusing on common drug resistance markers, the device will enhance antimicrobial stewardship and serve as a valuable tool in the battle against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Job Description

Position 1

• Develop nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) and CRISPR-Cas assays specific for MTB and MDR-MTB
• Develop solid-phase electrochemical reporters for CRISPR-Cas assays
• Evaluate developed assays using patient-derived samples
• Manage protein expression
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners to ensure alignment with larger project objectives
• Contribute to project management, encompassing financial and time management
• Present findings at internal project meetings and international conferences
• Contribute to peer-reviewed publications

Position 2

• Develop miniaturized graphene-based electrodes for electrochemical sensing
• Create microfluidic/mesofluidic devices for liquid handling
• Engage in CAD design and 3D printing of prototypes
• Evaluate devices using patient-derived samples
• Develop software for fluidic handling and data analysis
• Work closely with academic and industrial partners to ensure alignment with larger project objectives
• Contribute to project management, encompassing financial and time management
• Present findings at internal project meetings and international conferences
• Contribute to peer-reviewed publications

Profile

We invite applications from computer scientists and/or imaging experts interested in gaining experience in bioengineering, IVDs, and global health, as well as researchers with experience in IVDs eager to transition to mHealth and computer science. Proficiency in coding is essential, along with beneficial experience in automation of high-throughput image capture, analysis, and app development.

Candidates are expected to hold a PhD in a relevant science or engineering discipline. However, selection will focus on overall experience, expertise, and aspirations rather than strictly on research discipline. Successful candidates will join an international research team and should exhibit high motivation and passion for science, engineering, and global health.

Workplace

Your workplace will be a vibrant multicultural environment, fostering collaborative research across various disciplines.

We Offer

• A multicultural and multidisciplinary research environment
• Attractive hiring conditions
• Access to state-of-the-art equipment and resources
• Strong support for career progression

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We are committed to equal opportunities, respect for diversity, and nurturing an environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are upheld. For more information, visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is a fundamental value for us, and we strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

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

• A cover letter detailing your motivation for applying and how you meet the position requirements
• A detailed CV including a publication list and contact information for at least two references

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. Please note that applications will be assessed continuously, and a shortlist for interviews will be created in mid-February, with online interviews scheduled shortly thereafter. We anticipate successful candidates will begin their roles in 2026.

For further information about the deMello group, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position are welcome and should be directed to Dr. Daniel Richards at daniel.richards@chem.ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our exceptional educational programs, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of knowledge into society. Our institution fosters independent thinking and aims to inspire excellence among over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections worldwide as we collaborate to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.