PhD Position in Advanced Bioelectronic & Electrical Conversion Research ETH Zürich in Switzerland

The Biotechnology and Bioengineering group at ETH Zürich, led by Professor Dr. Martin Fussenegger, is offering a PhD position in Advanced Bioelectronic & Electrical Conversion Research. This opportunity is based at the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) in Basel, Switzerland, a hub for interdisciplinary research at the intersection of biology, engineering, and physical sciences. The D-BSSE unites theoretical and experimental biology with advanced bioengineering, collaborating closely with experts in materials science, physics, and chemistry to drive innovation in systems biology, biotechnology, and synthetic biology.

Located in Basel, at the heart of the BioValley, the group benefits from proximity to major pharmaceutical companies and a vibrant life sciences industry, providing an ideal environment for translational research and access to both academic and industrial expertise. The research focuses on integrating synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and electrogenetic interfaces to engineer human cells for next-generation bioelectronic medicine. Projects aim to design programmable cells that respond to electrical, electromagnetic, acoustic, and biochemical cues, enabling wireless, real-time control of therapeutic protein expression and metabolic regulation.

PhD candidates will engage in catalyst engineering, computational simulation, bioelectrode device fabrication, and electrical engineering to develop bioelectronic interfaces for closed-loop programming of cellular behavior and real-time metabolic monitoring. There are also opportunities to design novel bioelectronic implants and develop specialized control software. The research is highly interdisciplinary, with applications in cancer, metabolic, neurodegenerative, autoimmune, and infectious diseases.

Applicants should have a strong academic record and a background in physics, material science, or chemistry. Expertise in bioelectronics or software simulations is preferred, or a willingness to acquire these skills, along with solid knowledge of electrochemistry and materials chemistry. Collaboration with molecular biologists and bioengineers is essential. The position offers numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, sports facilities, childcare, and attractive pension options. ETH Zürich values diversity, sustainability, and equality of opportunity, fostering an inclusive and climate-neutral environment.

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

ETH Zürich is renowned for its excellence in science and technology education, cutting-edge research, and commitment to societal impact. With over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, the university promotes independent thinking and works collaboratively to address global challenges.