Empa, a leading research institution within the ETH Domain, is offering a fully funded PhD position in the Nanomaterials in Health Lab located in St. Gallen, Switzerland. The lab is renowned for its interdisciplinary research in nanomedicine, focusing on the design and characterization of particulate materials for drug delivery, imaging, and diagnosis. This project centers on the synthesis and biomedical application of photoactive nanozymes, with the goal of advancing personalized medicine strategies.

As a PhD student, you will synthesize photoactive nanozymes, ensuring reproducibility and scalability, and modify their surface chemistry to enhance biocompatibility and stability. You will formulate and optimize clinically relevant solution formulations, characterize physicochemical properties, and correlate enzymatic activities with nanomaterial structure and functionalization. The project includes phototherapy evaluation under NIR light, assessment of catalytic and photothermal performance, and biomedical validation using in vitro astrocytoma relapse models and ex vivo patient-derived tissue samples.

The position is supervised by Dr. Giacomo Reina (Empa), in collaboration with PD Dr. Isabel Hostettler (Kantonsspital St. Gallen), and offers joint affiliation with ETH Zürich (D-HEST, Prof. Peter Wick). The project is planned for three years, with the possibility of extension, and is supported by Empa. The working environment is inclusive, innovative, and student-focused, providing access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant research community.

Applicants must have a completed Master’s degree in biomaterials, chemistry, nanotechnology, or biomedical engineering, with experience in nanomaterial synthesis and characterization. Familiarity with cell culture, 3D models, and in vitro assays is required, while experience in phototherapy, programming, and large data analysis is advantageous. Fluency in English and excellent communication skills are essential.

The application deadline is May 1, 2026, or upon mutual agreement. Interested candidates should apply online via the provided link, submitting a CV, cover letter, and relevant certificates. For further information, contact the HR partner at Empa. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated students to contribute to cutting-edge research in nanomedicine and materials science.