Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz
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PhD Student in Bioprocess Technology – Upstream Processing of Antibodies and Viral Vectors Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz FHNW in Switzerland
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Biomedical Engineering
Funding
Available
Deadline
Dec 31, 2026
Country
Switzerland
University
Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz
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About this position
Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz FHNW’s School of Life Sciences, through its Institute for Pharma Technology and Biotechnology, is offering a PhD position in the Bioprocess Technology laboratory in Muttenz, Basel. The project addresses the production of antibodies and viral vectors through advanced upstream bioprocessing.
The PhD student will design, build, and automate bioreactor and cell-culture setups that integrate pumps, flow sensors, filtration systems, and other peripheral equipment. A major focus is the development and operation of cell-retention and filtration systems for perfusion and tangential flow filtration processes. The work combines hands-on bioprocess engineering with device communication, data acquisition, and process control.
The researcher will run mammalian cell cultivations and analyze experimental data to validate new technologies and control strategies. The role also involves troubleshooting hardware and software problems, developing creative technical solutions, and communicating results through scientific publications, international conferences, and interactions with industrial partners.
The Bioprocess Technology lab provides an applied, interdisciplinary research environment connecting teaching, research, practice, and industry. The School of Life Sciences offers modern technical, laboratory, and office facilities, with collaborations involving companies and institutions in Switzerland and abroad. The project is suited to a technically strong researcher interested in bioprocess technology, cell culture, antibody and viral-vector production, filtration, sensors, automation, and process innovation.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must hold an MSc degree in biochemistry, bioprocess engineering, biotechnology, chemical or process engineering, or a related field. An excellent scientific and technical track record is required, including demonstrated experience building or modifying laboratory equipment and setups. Applicants should have experience with mammalian cell culture technology, antibody or viral-vector expression and purification, pumps and filtration systems in a bioprocess or process-engineering context, sensors, data acquisition and/or process automation, and solid programming skills in Python, MATLAB, C/C++ or similar. A structured, independent, solution-oriented working style, passion for applied research and technical innovation, teamwork in international interdisciplinary environments, and excellent written and spoken English are expected; German is an asset.
How to apply
Apply online through the application portal at https://apply.refline.ch/655298/4621/pub/4/index.html by 31 December 2026. Prepare an application demonstrating the stated academic qualifications, technical experience, programming skills, and English proficiency.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.