PhD position in Development of a microfluidic platform for diagnosis of sepsis

PhD position in Development of a microfluidic platform for diagnosis of sepsis
100%, Basel, fixed-term

We are 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.

For a third-party funded project, running for four years, we are offering a PhD position and a postdoctoral position.

Project background

The project RadiantDx is a multidisciplinary, collaborative project that addresses the diagnosis of sepsis. Sepsis is a severe health condition, where patients typically suffer from unspecific symptoms like high fever. To support doctors in the decision how to treat the patient, we will develop a miniaturized system for rapid diagnosis of sepsis, which prevents unnecessary administration of antibiotic compounds and leads to improved survival and recovery of the patients. Together with researchers from the Institute of Medical Microbiology at the University of Zurich, the Department of Informatics at ETHZ and several further partners, we address the challenge by the combining microfluidic technology, sequencing and fast data analysis.

In the Bioanalytics Group, a PhD student and a postdoctoral fellow will work together on different aspects of the microfluidic platform and sample preparation.

Job description

The PhD student and postodoctoral fellow will work together on the following tasks:

• Design and manufacture a microfluidic platform
• Develop, optimize and test biological assays
• Perform imaging, data analysis and interpretation
• Prepare platform for use in clinical setting
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals
• Participate actively in meetings of the group and the research consortium
• Interact and collaborate with other members of the group and consortium

Profile

• Master`s degree in microsystems engineering, biomedical engineering or interdisciplinary study programmes.
• Candidates with background in biology, bioengineering, biotechnology or microbiology, with a strong interest in technology development, are welcome to apply as well.
• 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

Workplace
Workplace
We offer

We offer to the successful candidate:

• An intellectually challenging position in the inspiring atmosphere of an interdisciplinary team, and the prospect to obtain a PhD degree from ETH Zurich
• Multifaceted, applied work in a larger team with computer scientists and clinicians/microbiologists
• From bench to bedside: develop technology and methods close to the need of patients
• Advanced training options in various related fields
• Development of personal skills
• 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.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Letter describing your background, interest and motivation
• CV
• Certificates (transcripts for Bachelor and Master degrees)
• Two reference letters

Further information about the Department Biosystems Science and Engineering can be found on our Website. Information about the gorup: Bioanalytics Group

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Petra Dittrich, (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

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

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