PhD Positions in Cardiovascular Engineering, Fluid Mechanics, and Thrombosis at University of Bern University of Bern in Switzerland

The ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research at the University of Bern is offering two fully funded PhD positions within the ThromboRisk project, a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network funded by the EU. The positions, starting February 1, 2026, are hosted by the University of Bern and last for 48 months. The research will be conducted in the Cardiovascular Engineering (CVE) group, which specializes in biomedical flow systems and cardiovascular devices, utilizing both experimental and computational labs.

The first PhD project focuses on 'Thrombolysis in Pulmonary Embolism,' aiming to develop multi-level thrombosis risk prediction models by integrating cell-, thrombus-, and organ-level insights. The project involves creating a model of pulmonary circulation, including drug and thromboemboli transport, to optimize drug delivery protocols and understand embolization mechanisms. The position includes a 6-month training at CorFlow Therapeutics AG (Switzerland) and two 3-month secondments at University College London and University of Leeds (UK).

The second PhD project, 'Bioprosthetic Valve Thrombosis,' aims to develop improved aortic valve prostheses to reduce thrombosis risk. The research will combine high-fidelity fluid-structure interaction solvers with blood damage and thrombosis models to address shear-induced platelet activation, endothelial wall damage, flow stasis, and clot adhesion. This position includes a 4-month secondment at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin (Germany).

Both projects are part of the ThromboRisk consortium, which brings together 10 leading European universities to advance multi-level thrombosis risk prediction using mechanobiology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, and computational modelling. The program offers hands-on research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and high-quality training, preparing students for careers in academia and industry.

Applicants must have an MSc in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Computational Science, or a related field, with strong fluid mechanics background and interest in computational modelling. Proficiency in English (C1) and compliance with the MSCA mobility rule are required. The positions are fully funded, offering a competitive salary, mobility and family allowances, and free German courses. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until filled. For more information, contact Prof. Dr. Dominik Obrist ([email protected]).