PhD Student in In Vitro Diagnostics: CRISPR–Cas and Electrochemical Biosensors for Tuberculosis Drug Resistance

ETH Zürich, in collaboration with the Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM), the Swiss Tropical Public Health Institute, and the National Centre for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease in Georgia, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position. The project, led by Dr Daniel A. Richards, Professor Andrew J. deMello, and Dr Loïc Burr, focuses on developing advanced CRISPR–Cas-based electrochemical biosensors for the rapid and multiplexed detection of multidrug resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MDR-MTB).

Project Overview: Tuberculosis (TB) remains the deadliest infectious disease globally, with drug resistance posing a significant challenge, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This project aims to address the diagnostic gap by creating RPA–CRISPR–Cas assays capable of detecting TB and drug resistance markers from a single sample. The assays will be integrated with novel electrochemical reporters, enabling miniaturization and quantitative point-of-care diagnostics. The technology will be validated in patient samples and field-tested, offering the student opportunities for international collaboration and fieldwork.

Research Environment: The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary, multicultural team at ETH Zürich and CSEM, benefiting from state-of-the-art facilities, strong career support, and a vibrant academic community. The project is part of a SNSF BRIDGE Discovery grant and involves close collaboration with leading academic and industrial partners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) and CRISPR–Cas assays for MTB and MDR–MTB
• Design and implement solid-phase electrochemical reporters
• Evaluate assays using patient-derived samples
• Engage in protein expression and assay optimization
• Collaborate with international partners and contribute to project management
• Present research at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals

Eligibility: Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in a relevant science or engineering field (e.g., bioengineering, molecular biology, chemistry, analytical chemistry). Experience with CRISPR–Cas, biosensing, or electrochemistry is highly desirable. Candidates must demonstrate motivation, strong communication skills, and the ability to work in a collaborative, international environment. Proficiency in English is required.

Funding: The position is fully funded for four years through a SNSF BRIDGE Discovery grant, offering attractive hiring conditions and comprehensive research support.

Application Process: Applications are accepted exclusively via the ETH Zürich online portal. Required documents include a cover letter, detailed CV, and contact information for at least two references. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with interviews scheduled after shortlisting. The anticipated start date is in 2026.

For further information, contact Dr Daniel Richards ([email protected]) or Dr Loïc Burr ([email protected]). For more details about the deMello group and CSEM, visit their respective websites.

ETH Zürich is committed to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability, providing an environment where all staff and students can thrive.