Scientific Assistant for Manufacturing Ultra-Flexible Neural Interfaces

Scientific Assistant for Manufacturing Ultra-Flexible Neural Interfaces

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The brain is an incredibly complex system comprising billions of neurons that interact in intricate ways. Capturing this network activity at a single-cell level across multiple brain areas is crucial for understanding the brain's cognitive functions. Current methods for brain interfacing face limitations in terms of temporal resolution, biocompatibility, and access to deeper brain structures. To address these challenges, we have developed Ultra-Flexible Tentacle Electrodes (UFTEs), which consist of fibers significantly smaller than a human hair (2.4 μm x 7 μm cross-sectional area). These electrodes enable us to record single-unit activity from multiple brain areas in freely-moving rodents with near-year-long stability. Unlike conventional stiff electrodes, UFTEs are not recognized by the brain's immune system, allowing for a superior signal-to-noise ratio compared to currently available flexible electrodes (Yasar & Gombkoto et al., Nature Communications, 2024).

Project Background

While we have successfully validated UFTEs in vivo, further advancements are essential to facilitate their widespread adoption as an advanced research tool within the neuroscience community. We have received a project grant from Innosuisse aimed at making UFTEs more user-friendly and scalable, enhancing them with multimodal recording/stimulation capabilities, and adapting them for non-human primate studies. Our ultimate goal is to bring UFTEs to market as an advanced research tool.

Job Description

• Soldering electrical components and UFTEs to printed circuit boards
• 3D printing, machining, and electrochemical manufacturing of components for the surgical insertion and secure shipment of UFTEs
• Assembly of surgery-ready UFTEs for in-house use or shipment to collaborators

This is a 1.5-year position with a starting date in April 2026 (exact date to be agreed upon). Follow-up positions may be available based on interest and funding.

Profile

• Swiss citizen/permanent resident or EU/EFTA national
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in natural sciences or engineering
• Preferred skills: Assembly/manipulation of small components (hobbies requiring fine motor skills and patience, such as knitting or model building, also count), basic chemical benchwork, and soldering electrical components
• Ability to learn new skills rapidly, follow protocols reliably, and troubleshoot as necessary
• Strong communication skills and commitment to maintaining well-organized documentation

Workplace

Join us in an interdisciplinary environment at a world-leading university, where you will be at the forefront of advancing our neural implant technology toward commercialization.

We Offer

• An opportunity to delve into the exciting fields of neural interfaces and neuroscience
• The possibility to see the practical application of your work in in vivo brain-machine interface settings
• Access to a robust network of neuroscientists and engineers at the Institute of Neuroinformatics, Neuroscience Center Zurich (ZNZ), and our collaborating labs worldwide
• Flexible working hours
• Compensation based on working percentage, educational level, and experience, following ETH Zurich standards, along with social security benefits and other perks

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

At ETH Zurich, we encourage an inclusive culture that promotes equal opportunities and values diversity. We strive to nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to discover how we foster a fair environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are committed to advancing toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

We look forward to your online application using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge research, and effective transfer of knowledge into society, our institution hosts over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. We promote independent thinking and create an environment that fosters excellence. Positioned in the heart of Europe, we collaborate on solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.