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 contribute to the development of a diagnostic device aimed at detecting multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MDR-MTB). The goal is to create a simple, portable, and cost-effective diagnostic device suitable for point-of-care use. This initiative is funded through an SNSF BRIDGE Discovery grant and involves 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 tailored for candidates with a background in electrochemical biosensing, particularly those who have experience integrating molecular biology with electrochemistry. The second position is intended for individuals with expertise in electrical engineering and device development. These fixed-term positions are for an initial duration of 24 months, with the potential for extension.
Tuberculosis (TB) claims the lives of approximately 1.25 million people each year, making it the single deadliest infectious disease. Unfortunately, TB disproportionately affects low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with a staggering 98% of global TB cases occurring within these regions, leading to devastating consequences. The increasing prevalence of this disease has resulted in widespread antibiotic misuse, contributing to significant drug resistance. In the most severely affected areas, drug resistance among recurrent TB infections has exceeded 50%.
Most TB-related deaths are preventable with early diagnosis; however, nearly a quarter of all TB cases go undiagnosed. Additionally, the surge in drug resistance can be attributed in part to the lack of effective methods for identifying resistance markers, which hampers antibiotic stewardship. Unfortunately, current diagnostic technologies have proven inadequate for diagnosing TB and its associated drug resistances, particularly at the point of care (PoC). Few existing technologies can quickly and accurately diagnose TB while simultaneously determining drug resistances, and those that do are often large and costly, limiting their use in LMICs. Furthermore, these technologies typically depend excessively on sputum samples, which can be challenging to collect in low-resource environments.
This project seeks to develop an affordable, portable, and rapid diagnostic platform technology capable of multiplexing 14 targets for TB and associated drug resistance markers from a single sample. The technology will utilize paper-based formats and leverage electrochemical signaling for miniaturization and quantitative disease readouts. These tests will be constructed using a recently patented technique from ETH Zürich, specifically the laser-induced graphenization of cellulose. This manufacturing process is cost-effective, scalable, and rapid, making it ideal for developing PoC devices. Furthermore, this technology will employ novel CRISPR-Cas-based biosensing assays designed to detect single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) linked to drug resistance. To enable PoC deployment, we will collaborate with CSEM to integrate these technologies into an economical cartridge and reader system. The Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute and the National Center for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease in Georgia will support the research team by validating the technology with patient samples and conducting a small pilot study.
This device will address a critical gap in the current TB treatment pathway and provide care to millions of underserved patients, particularly in LMICs. By facilitating rapid TB diagnosis, this technology aims to enable more accurate and timely medical interventions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and alleviating burdens on healthcare systems. Furthermore, by focusing on common drug resistance markers, this technology will enhance antimicrobial stewardship and serve as a valuable asset in the battle against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
We invite applications from computer scientists and/or imaging experts eager to gain expertise in bioengineering, in vitro diagnostics (IVDs), and global health. We also welcome researchers who have experience in IVDs and are keen to transition toward mHealth and computer science. Proficiency in coding is essential, with prior experience in automating high-throughput image capture and analysis, as well as app development, regarded as advantageous.
Applicants should hold a PhD in a relevant science or engineering discipline. However, candidates will be evaluated based on their overall experience, expertise, and motivations rather than specific research disciplines. Successful applicants will become integral members of an international research team and are expected to be highly motivated and passionate about science, engineering, and global health.
ETH Zurich offers a multicultural and multidisciplinary research environment. We pride ourselves on providing attractive hiring conditions, access to state-of-the-art equipment and resources, and robust support for career progression.
As part of our commitment to inclusivity, ETH Zurich fosters an environment where equality of opportunity is paramount. We cherish diversity and actively work towards sustainability, continuously striving for a climate-neutral future.
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland