Doctoral Position: Development of an Organ-on-chip platform

ETH Zurich; Zürich; On-site; CHF 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

ETH Zürich in Basel invites applications for a Doctoral Position focusing on developing an organ-on-chip model system. The role involves designing and fabricating microfluidic platforms, optimizing biological assays, and performing imaging and data analysis within an interdisciplinary Bioanalytics Group.

The project aims to understand cancer metastasis mechanisms and the endothelial barrier in vascularized tissue models.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in relevant field.
• Experience with microfluidics and organ-on-chip platforms is desirable.
• Strong ability to communicate across disciplines and in English.

Responsibilities

• Design and manufacture a microfluidic platform.
• Develop, optimize and test biological assays.
• Perform imaging (time-lapse microscopy), data analysis and interpretation.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Participate in group meetings and collaborative discussions.
• Interact and collaborate with group members and partners.

Skills

Microfluidics

Biomedical engineering

Interdisciplinary teamwork

English communication

Education

Master's degree in microsystems engineering, biomedical engineering or interdisciplinary study programmes

Background in biology, bioengineering, biotechnology, materials science or microbiology

Tools

Microscopy (time-lapse)

Job description

Doctoral Position: Development of an Organ-on-chip platform

100%, Basel, fixed-term

The Bioanalytics Group at ETH Zürich in Basel (Switzerland) is developing so-called lab‑on‑chip technology (or microfluidic technology) for applications across the life sciences and biomedicine. Our interdisciplinary approach includes the design and manufacturing of miniaturized platforms and their optimization for biochemical assays and analytical procedures. To strengthen our team, we are offering a Doctoral Position for developing an organ‑on‑chip model system.

Project background

Organ‑on‑chip systems, also known as microphysiological systems, are promising platforms for investigating disease development and evaluating potential treatments. Their miniaturized design enables the reproducible and controlled formation of human tissues with specific functions, as well as the parallelized study of biological processes.

In the Bioanalytics Group, we are developing vascularized tissue models to investigate how cells, cell‑secreted molecules, and drugs cross the endothelial barrier to reach surrounding tissues and how compounds translocate from tissue into the blood stream.

As part of a project focused on understanding the mechanisms underlying cancer metastasis, we are looking for a motivated Doctoral student interested in experimental research at the interface of engineering and biology.

Job description

• Design and manufacture a microfluidic platform
• Develop, optimize and test biological assays
• Perform imaging (time‑lapse microscopy), data analysis and interpretation
• Publish findings in peer‑reviewed journals
• Participate actively in group meetings and collaborative research discussion meeting
• Interact and collaborate with other members of the group and collaboration partners

Profile

• Master`s degree in microsystems engineering, biomedical engineering or interdisciplinary study programmes
• Candidates with background in biology, bioengineering, biotechnology, material sciences or microbiology, with a strong interest in technology development, are welcome to apply as well
• Experiences in the field of microfluidics
• The combination of biological and technological aspects is central in our group and in this project
• A possible candidate should have strong disposition to learn and improve novel methods, should be very open to different research disciplines and should be able to communicate across disciplines
• Good communication (in English) and teamwork skills

We offer

• An intellectually challenging position in the inspiring atmosphere of an interdisciplinary team, and the prospect to obtain a Doctoral degree from ETH Zurich
• Applied work in a multidisciplinary team
• Advanced training in different related fields and participation at international conferences is highly encouraged

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate‑neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

Further information about the Department and the Institute can be found on the following Websites: D-BSSE and Bioanalytics Group . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Petra S. Dittrich, [e-mail] (no applications).

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting‑edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.