ETH Zürich is seeking two postdoctoral scientists to join the Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering, working under Dr Daniel A. Richards and Professor Andrew J. deMello. The positions focus on developing a novel diagnostic device for multidrug resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MDR-MTB), aiming to create a simple, portable, and affordable point-of-care solution. This project is part of a multi-institutional consortium funded by the SNSF BRIDGE Discovery grant, involving partners such as the Swiss Centre for Microelectronics (CSEM), Swiss Tropical Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), and the National Centre for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (NCTLD) in Georgia.

The research addresses the urgent global health challenge posed by tuberculosis, which remains the deadliest infectious disease worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The project seeks to overcome limitations of current diagnostic technologies by developing a paper-based, electrochemical platform capable of multiplexing 14 targets for TB and drug resistance markers from a single sample. The device leverages ETH Zürich's patented laser-induced graphenization of cellulose for affordable, scalable manufacturing, and integrates CRISPR–Cas-based biosensing assays for precise detection of single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with drug resistance.

Postdoctoral researchers will contribute to two main areas: (1) developing nucleic acid amplification tests and CRISPR–Cas assays, solid-phase electrochemical reporters, and evaluating assays with patient samples; (2) designing and fabricating miniaturized graphene-based electrodes, microfluidic devices, and software for fluidics handling and data analysis. Both roles involve close collaboration with academic and industrial partners, project management, presenting at conferences, and publishing research findings.

Applicants should have a PhD in a relevant science or engineering discipline, with strong coding skills and experience in bioengineering, molecular biology, electrochemistry, device development, or computer science. The positions offer a multicultural, multidisciplinary research environment, access to state-of-the-art equipment, and strong career progression support. ETH Zürich values diversity, sustainability, and provides an inclusive culture for staff and students.

Applications must be submitted online via the ETH Zürich portal, including a cover letter, detailed CV with publication list, and contact details for at least two references. Applications are reviewed continually, with interviews held online after shortlisting. The anticipated start date is in 2026. For further information, candidates may contact Dr Daniel Richards at [email protected] (no applications via email).