PhD Position: 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 PhD position in projects developing synthetic biology-inspired human therapies. The group uses synthetic biology to engineer human cells and create next-generation cell-based therapies for cancer, metabolic, neurodegenerative, autoimmune and infectious diseases, using biosensors, gene switches, genetic closed-loop circuits and chemical interfaces. Projects are highly interdisciplinary, collaborating with molecular biologists, bioengineers and clinical researchers.

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 regulation of therapeutic proteins
• Translate research advances into programmable cellular implant prototypes

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
• Outstanding academic record and enthusiasm for a career in academia, industrial R&D or biotechnology entrepreneurship

What we offer

• Public transport season tickets and car sharing
• A wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ
• Childcare and attractive pension benefits

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