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

The Biotechnology and Bioengineering group at ETH Zürich, led by Professor Dr. Martin Fussenegger, is offering a postdoctoral position focused on developing synthetic biology-inspired human therapies. Based at the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) in Basel, this group operates at the intersection of biology, engineering, and physical sciences, fostering interdisciplinary research and collaborations with leaders in material science, physics, and chemistry. The D-BSSE is renowned for its pioneering advances in systems biology, biotechnology, and synthetic biology, and is situated in Basel’s BioValley, a global hub for life sciences and pharmaceutical innovation.

Research projects in this postdoctoral role will advance cell-based therapies by applying synthetic biology principles to engineer human cells. The group’s work targets cancer, metabolic, neurodegenerative, autoimmune, and infectious diseases, leveraging innovative platforms such as biosensors, gene switches, genetic closed-loop circuits, and chemical structures that interface with cellular activities. The aim is to design programmable cellular implants and devices for therapeutic applications, integrating fundamental discoveries with translational development to shape the future of biomedical innovation.

Postdoctoral projects will combine molecular engineering, cell programming, and chemical–biological interfacing to engineer human cells using synthetic gene circuits and biosensing platforms. Responsibilities 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 environment is highly interdisciplinary, encouraging close collaboration with molecular biologists, bioengineers, and clinical researchers to accelerate translation into clinically relevant therapies.

Applicants should be highly motivated to bridge basic and translational research in cell biology and synthetic biology. Required qualifications include strong skills in molecular and cell biology techniques, experience with cultivation and engineering of primary human cells and mammalian cell lines, and ideally, experience with in vivo techniques and completion of an accredited course in laboratory animal science (FELASA / LTK or equivalent). A strong publication record and ambition to pursue a career in academia, industrial R&D, or biotechnology entrepreneurship are preferred.

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, promoting an inclusive culture and working towards a climate-neutral future.

Applications must be submitted exclusively through the ETH Zurich online application portal and should include a CV, list of publications, motivation letter, three 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 by email.