Scientific Assistant / Scientific Assistantess

Scientific Assistant for Manufacturing Ultra-Flexible Neural Interfaces

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The brain is an incredibly complex system made up of billions of neurons that interact with one another. Capturing this network activity at a single-cell level from multiple brain areas is essential for understanding how the brain performs all of its cognitive functions. Current methods to interface with the brain have limitations in terms of temporal resolution, biocompatibility, or accessibility to deep brain areas. To address these challenges, we developed Ultra-Flexible Tentacle Electrodes (UFTEs), which consist of fibers significantly smaller than human hair (2.4 µm x 7 µm cross-sectional area). These electrodes enable us to record single-unit activity from multiple brain regions in freely-moving rodents with nearly year-long stability. Unlike conventional stiff electrodes, UFTEs are not recognized by the brain's immune system and provide a higher signal-to-noise ratio than state-of-the-art flexible electrodes (Yasar & Gombkoto et al., Nature Communications, 2024).

Project Background

While we have successfully demonstrated in vivo validation of UFTEs, further steps are necessary to enable widespread adoption as an advanced research tool within the neuroscience community. We received a project grant from Innosuisse to enhance the user-friendliness and scalability of UFTEs, integrate multimodal recording/stimulation capabilities, and adapt them for non-human primate studies. Our ultimate goal is to bring the 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 that can start in April 2026 (exact date by agreement). Follow-up positions may be available depending 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, are also considered), basic chemical benchwork, and soldering electrical components.
• Ability to learn new skills quickly, follow protocols reliably, and make adjustments or troubleshoot when necessary
• Strong communication skills and well-organized documentation practices

Workplace

Located in the vibrant setting of ETH Zurich, you will be immersed in a collaborative and advanced research environment.

We Offer

• An opportunity to delve into the exciting fields of neural interfaces and neuroscience within a highly interdisciplinary environment at a world-leading university.
• Involvement at the forefront of making our neural implant technology market-ready for commercialization.
• Engagement throughout the *full lifecycle*, not just in the design and construction of devices, but also by witnessing them in action with *in vivo* brain-machine interface applications.
• 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.
• Competitive compensation (exact amount depending on the working percentage, educational level, and experience according to ETH Zurich standards), social security benefits, and additional perks offered by ETH Zurich.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We are committed to equality of opportunity, cherishing diversity, and fostering a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Discover more about our commitment to a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive by visiting our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Additionally, sustainability is a core value for us, and we consistently strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

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

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our top-notch education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and our capacity to translate new knowledge directly into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university offers a nurturing environment that inspires independent thinking and excellence. Nestled in the heart of Europe, we create connections worldwide to collaboratively develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.