Postdoctoral Researcher - Synthetic Biology-Inspired Therapies

About the role

The Biotechnology and Bioengineering group led by Prof. Dr. Martin Fussenegger at the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) of ETH Zurich in Basel invites candidates for a fixed-term postdoctoral position in projects developing synthetic biology-inspired human therapies. The group applies synthetic biology principles to engineer human cells and create next-generation cell-based therapies for cancer, metabolic, neurodegenerative, autoimmune and infectious diseases.

Key responsibilities

• Combine molecular engineering, cell programming and chemical-biological interfacing to engineer human cells with synthetic gene circuits and biosensing platforms
• Develop novel biosensing systems for real-time monitoring of cellular states
• Create genetic architectures for precise therapeutic protein regulation
• Translate research advances into programmable cellular implant prototypes
• Collaborate closely with molecular biologists, bioengineers and clinical researchers to accelerate translation into clinically relevant therapies

Required profile

• Strong skills in molecular and cell biology techniques, including cultivation and engineering of primary human cells and mammalian cell lines
• Experience with in vivo techniques is an asset
• An accredited course in laboratory animal science (FELASA / LTK or equivalent) is an asset
• A strong publication record and ambition to pursue a career in academia, industrial R&D or biotechnology entrepreneurship are welcomed

What we offer

• Public transport season tickets and car sharing
• Sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits

Applications must be submitted online through the university's application portal, with a CV, a list of publications, a motivation letter, three letters of recommendation and a one-page research plan.