Scientific Assistant in Biomedical Machine Learning and Data Science / Scientific Assistantess in Biomedical Machine Learning and Data Science

Scientific Assistant in Biomedical Machine Learning and Data Science

80%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Biomedical Data Science (BMDS) Lab is dedicated to exploring data-driven solutions for healthcare applications, focusing on neurological conditions such as spinal cord injury (SCI), lower back pain, neuro-degenerative disorders, and neurological tumors. Our research thrives on interdisciplinary collaboration, leveraging expertise from medicine, biology, computer science, and data science. We are looking for a scientific assistant to join our growing team and contribute to impactful research partnerships. The anticipated start date is March 1, 2026.

Project Background

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) has profound and lifelong consequences for individuals and their families. A significant challenge in predicting long-term recovery lies in the considerable heterogeneity of patient outcomes, which traditional clinical assessments may not fully capture. Standard neurological evaluations are insufficient to reflect the underlying biological and functional diversity, thereby limiting prediction accuracy and the effectiveness of treatment strategies. This project aims to bridge this gap by integrating neurological assessments with neurophysiological measurements and routine blood biomarkers, utilizing advanced machine learning to merge these diverse data sources. By identifying the most informative clinical features, we seek to provide more accurate and interpretable recovery predictions to enhance patient stratification, prognosis, and personalized treatment strategies.

Job Description

• Explore and manage SCI datasets: Work with international databases of SCI patient data, ensuring accurate handling, preprocessing, and integration of heterogeneous clinical, neurophysiological, and biomarker information. These datasets will be readily available at the start of the project.
• Develop advanced deep learning models: Design and implement a multi-branch neural network capable of integrating multiple data modalities into a unified representation.
• Implement a multi-task learning framework: Build and evaluate models that predict multiple related recovery outcomes simultaneously, leveraging shared information between tasks to enhance predictive performance, interpretability, and generalization.

Profile

• You hold a Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.
• You possess strong Python programming skills and have a proven track record in developing and training machine and deep learning models using Keras/TensorFlow and/or PyTorch, complemented by experience in statistical data analysis.
• You are familiar with collaborative coding practices, version control (e.g., Git), and have experience working on computing clusters.
• Experience with SCI data or related research topics is an advantage.
• A background in biomedical projects and experience in interdisciplinary collaboration is a plus.
• You are motivated to work as part of a diverse team and are committed to scientific excellence in your field.
• You are proficient in both written and spoken English.

Workplace

We offer a 1-year project-based contract at the BMDS Lab (80% workload).

We Offer

• A stimulating, collaborative environment within ETH Zurich, one of the world’s leading universities for science and technology.
• The opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge biomedical data science with direct clinical relevance.
• Advancement of your skills in data science, machine learning, and neuroinformatics through biomedical applications addressing critical health conditions with a focus on SCI.
• The chance to be part of a highly motivated, multidisciplinary, and collaborative team.
• Opportunities to learn from experts in the field and contribute to an active research lab.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equal opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to explore how we maintain a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we continually strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application by applying using the form below.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellence in education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and provides an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe and forging connections globally, we collaboratively develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.