PhD in Biomedical Materials: Enzyme-Triggered Hydrogels

AO Foundation; Davos; On-site; CHF 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

AO Foundation Davos invites applications for a PhD position within the PREPARE project, focusing on programmable antibacterial release in a biomaterials context. The candidate will synthesize and characterize hydrogels, load immunomodulators, and assess neutrophil activity, under joint supervision from ARI and the University of Fribourg.

The four-year program involves interdisciplinary collaboration, hands-on materials science, and translational research aimed at advancing infection prevention

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, biomaterials-related field.
• Strong interest in translational research and orthopaedic device infection.
• Ability to plan, design and execute experimental studies independently.
• Excellent communication skills in English, written and spoken.

Responsibilities

• Develop a hydrogel responsive to degrading enzymes for on-demand release.
• Incorporate small immunomodulators into hyaluronan-based systems.
• Evaluate hydrogel degradation, release kinetics, and neutrophil assays.
• Collaborate with ARI infection biology team and present results.

Skills

Excellent English communication

Independent experimental design

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Biomaterials interest

Education

Pharmaceutical sciences

Chemistry

Biomaterials engineering

Job description

AO Foundation Davos invites applications for a PhD position within the PREPARE project, focusing on programmable antibacterial release in a biomaterials context. The candidate will synthesize and characterize hydrogels, load immunomodulators, and assess neutrophil activity, under joint supervision from ARI and the University of Fribourg.

The four-year program involves interdisciplinary collaboration, hands-on materials science, and translational research aimed at advancing infection prevention