PhD Position for Synthetic Biology-Inspired Therapies ETH Zürich in Switzerland

The Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) at ETH Zürich in Basel offers a PhD position in the Biotechnology and Bioengineering group led by Professor Dr. Martin Fussenegger. This group is renowned for its pioneering work at the intersection of biology, engineering, and physical sciences, focusing on synthetic biology-inspired human therapies. D-BSSE is a highly interdisciplinary research department, integrating theoretical and experimental biology with advanced bioengineering, and collaborating with leaders in material science, physics, and chemistry. The department is located in Basel, Switzerland, within the BioValley region, which is a global hub for life sciences and pharmaceutical innovation.

The research projects in this PhD position aim to advance cell-based therapies and synthetic biology. The group applies state-of-the-art synthetic biology principles to engineer human cells, developing next-generation therapies for cancer, metabolic, neurodegenerative, autoimmune, and infectious diseases. Innovative platforms such as biosensors, gene switches, genetic closed-loop circuits, and chemical structures are used to design programmable cellular implants and devices for therapeutic applications. The work is highly translational, integrating fundamental discoveries with clinical development to shape the future of biomedical innovation.

PhD candidates will engage in molecular engineering, cell programming, and chemical–biological interfacing to engineer human cells using synthetic gene circuits and biosensing platforms. Projects include developing novel biosensing systems for real-time monitoring of cellular states, creating genetic architectures for precise therapeutic protein regulation, and translating these advances into programmable cellular implant prototypes. The research is interdisciplinary, involving close collaboration with molecular biologists, bioengineers, and clinical researchers to accelerate translation into clinically relevant therapies.

Applicants should be highly motivated and eager to bridge basic and translational research in cell biology and synthetic biology. Strong skills in molecular and cell biology techniques, including cultivation and engineering of primary human cells and mammalian cell lines, are required. Experience with in vivo techniques and completion of an accredited course in laboratory animal science (FELASA / LTK or equivalent) are considered assets. Candidates should have an outstanding academic record and enthusiasm for building a career in academia, industrial R&D, or biotechnology entrepreneurship.

ETH Zürich offers a world-class research environment, professional development opportunities, and numerous benefits such as public transport season tickets, car sharing, sports facilities, childcare, and attractive pension benefits. The university values diversity, sustainability, and equality of opportunity, fostering an inclusive culture and working towards a climate-neutral future.

Applications must be submitted exclusively through the ETH Zurich online application portal. Required documents include CV, complete academic transcripts, publication list, motivation letter, two letters of recommendation, and a brief research plan (1 page). Applications sent via email or postal services will not be considered. For further information, candidates may contact Professor Martin Fussenegger at [email protected] or visit the group’s academic page.

ETH Zürich is one of the world’s leading universities in science and technology, renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. The university promotes independent thinking and provides an inspiring environment for over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries.