Dr. Daniel A. Richards and Professor Andrew J. deMello, in the Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering at ETH Zürich, are seeking two postdoctoral researchers to contribute to the development of a diagnostic device for multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MDR-MTB). This initiative aims to create an easy-to-use, portable, and cost-effective diagnostic device for identifying MDR-MTB at the point-of-care. The research is funded through a 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 requires expertise in electrochemical biosensing, particularly in combining molecular biology with electrochemistry. The second position is for candidates with a background in electrical engineering and device development. Both positions are fixed-term for 24 months initially, with the possibility of extension.
Tuberculosis (TB) is responsible for approximately 1.25 million deaths annually, making it the deadliest infectious disease worldwide. This issue disproportionately affects low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with 98% of global TB cases occurring in these regions, resulting in significant health repercussions. The rise of drug-resistant TB due to antibiotic misuse is alarming, with drug resistance among recurrent TB infections exceeding 50% in severely affected areas.
Around 25% of all TB cases go undiagnosed, significantly contributing to the disease's mortality. The lack of effective methods to identify resistance markers complicates the management of antibiotic treatments. Contemporary diagnostic technologies have proven inadequate, particularly at the point-of-care, where few options exist that can quickly and accurately diagnose TB and determine drug resistances simultaneously. Traditional methods rely heavily on sputum samples, which are often difficult to collect in low-resource settings.
This project aspires to develop an affordable, portable, and rapid diagnostic platform capable of multiplexing 14 targets for TB and drug resistance markers from a single sample. The technology will be based on paper and utilize electrochemical signaling to enable miniaturization and provide quantitative disease readouts. Utilizing innovative laser-induced graphenization of cellulose technology from ETH Zürich, this manufacturing process is both cost-effective and scalable, making it ideal for point-of-care devices. Additionally, novel CRISPR-Cas-based biosensing assays will be designed to detect SNPs associated with drug resistance, further enhancing the technology's capability. Combined with the resources and expertise of CSEM, we aim to integrate these advancements into an affordable cartridge and reader system, leading to validation through patient samples and a small pilot study in collaboration with Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute and NCTLD Georgia.
Ultimately, this device intends to bridge a crucial gap in TB treatment pathways, potentially reaching millions of underserved patients, especially in LMICs. By offering rapid TB diagnoses, this technology will facilitate timely medical interventions, improve patient outcomes, and alleviate burdens on healthcare systems. Moreover, focusing on drug resistance markers will enhance antimicrobial stewardship, positioning it as a critical tool in the battle against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
We are eager to hear from individuals with backgrounds in computer science or imaging who seek to gain expertise in bioengineering, IVDs, and global health. Conversely, candidates with experience in IVDs looking to transition into mHealth and computer science are also encouraged to apply. Proficiency in coding is essential, with previous experience in automating high-throughput image capture and analysis, as well as app development, being advantageous.
We expect candidates to have earned a PhD in a relevant science or engineering discipline. However, applications will be assessed based on overall experience, expertise, and career aspirations rather than solely on specific research backgrounds. Successful candidates will be part of an international research team, exhibiting high motivation and a passion for science, engineering, and global health.
We offer a multicultural and multidisciplinary research environment with attractive employment conditions, access to state-of-the-art equipment and resources, and strong support for your career progression.
ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture, advocating for equality of opportunity, valuing diversity, and nurturing a work and learning atmosphere that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. To learn more about our commitment to creating a fair and open environment that fosters growth and development, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is integral to our mission, and we are continually working towards a climate-neutral future.
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
We look forward to receiving your application, which should include:
Applications will be evaluated as they arrive, with a shortlist for interviews being formed by mid-February. Interviews will occur online shortly afterward. We anticipate candidates commencing the project in 2026.
Further information about the deMello group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position are welcome and should be directed to Dr. Daniel Richards at daniel.richards@chem.ethz.ch (no applications).
ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for our outstanding education, cutting-edge research, and direct application of new knowledge to society, we attract over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, fostering an environment of independent thought and excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe and connected globally, we collaborate to find solutions to today's and tomorrow's global challenges.
Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland