PhD - Lab on Chip Sample Preparation for Next-Generation Molecular Diagnostics

Bosch; Renningen; On-site; EUR 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Bosch seeks a motivated PhD candidate in Renningen to develop a cartridge-ready microfluidic sample-preparation unit using magnetic beads for next-generation MDx workflows.

Responsibilities include literature research, multiphysics modeling (COMSOL), prototype development, and creating transferable design rules for disposable cartridges, aiming for robust, automated target capture and release in complex samples.

Qualifications

• Excellent master's degree in a relevant field such as Biomedical/Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics or MEMS.
• Solid knowledge of microfluidics, fluid dynamics and multiphysics simulation (e.g., COMSOL).
• Experience in design, prototyping and testing of lab-on-a-chip systems; familiarity with MDx is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform targeted literature research on magnetic particle manipulation and develop multiphysics models to optimize trajectories.
• Conceptually design a reusable microfluidic handling module for automated sample preparation.
• Create functional prototypes and quantify performance with metrics like recovery and processing time.
• Translate results into design rules for cartridge-compatible disposable diagnostics platforms.

Skills

Microfluidics

Fluid dynamics

Multiphysics simulation

Lab-on-a-chip

Prototyping

Molecular diagnostics MDx

Education

Master's degree in Biomedical Eng / Mechanical Eng / Applied Physics / MEMS

Tools

COMSOL

Microfluidic design tools

Job description

Company Description

At Bosch, we shape the future by inventing high-quality technologies and services that spark enthusiasm and enrich people’s lives. Our promise to our associates is rock-solid: we grow together, we enjoy our work, and we inspire each other. Join in and feel the difference. The Robert Bosch GmbH is looking forward to your application!

Job Description

Join our innovative research team. We are looking for a motivated PhD candidate to develop a microfluidic sample-preparation unit operation, based on magnetic beads, enabling next-generation molecular diagnostics (MDx) workflows. Next-generation molecular diagnostics require robust and automated methods for isolating low-abundance biological targets - such as pathogens, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and extracellular vesicles (EVs)-from complex samples. This PhD project aims to develop a scalable, cartridge-compatible platform for the controlled handling of functionalized magnetic particles throughout the complete sample-preparation workflow, including target capture, washing, transfer, resuspension, and release. The central objective is to establish a reusable microfluidic actuation module that interfaces seamlessly with disposable diagnostic cartridges.

• You will conduct targeted literature research on the manipulation of magnetic particles and develop multiphysics models (e.g., COMSOL) to optimize particle trajectories and fluid interactions.
• Furthermore, you will conceptually design and develop a reusable, cartridge-compatible microfluidic handling module that automates the entire target-molecule extraction process (capture, washing, transfer, and release).
• You will create functional prototypes and experimentally quantify system performance using key metrics such as target-molecule recovery, processing time, and reproducibility.
• Last but not least, you will translate your physical understanding and modeling results into rigorous design rules for integration into disposable diagnostics cartridges, delivering transferable models and prototypes for future product development.

Qualifications

• Education: excellent master's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, Microsystems Engineering (MEMS), or a related field
• Experience and Knowledge: solid knowledge of microfluidics, fluid dynamics, and multiphysics simulation (e.g., COMSOL); practical experience in the design, prototyping, and testing of lab-on-a-chip systems; ideally, familiarity with handling magnetic particles, non-Newtonian fluids (such as blood), or sample preparation for molecular diagnostics (MDx)
• Personality and Working Practice: you work independently, plan your tasks carefully, and contribute with a high level of commitment and a strong hands-on mentality; you are able to communicate your research findings clearly and bridge the gap between theoretical simulation and physical prototyping, taking ownership of your work
• Enthusiasm: you are passionate about interdisciplinary scientific work at the intersection of physics, engineering, and biomedicine, approach complex tasks creatively and innovatively, and successfully translate them into practical applications
• Languages: very good written and spoken German and English

Additional Information

https://www.bosch-ai.com

www.bosch.com/research

The final topic depends on your university.

Start: October 2026

Diversity and inclusion are not just trends for us but are firmly anchored in our corporate culture. Therefore, we welcome all applications, regardless of gender, age, disability, religion, ethnic origin or sexual identity.

Need support during your application?

Celina Dannecker (Human Resources)

[phone]

Need further information about the job?

Raphaelle Satet (Functional Department)

[phone]