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

The Biotechnology and Bioengineering group at the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) of ETH Zürich, led by Professor Dr. Martin Fussenegger, is offering a postdoctoral position focused on developing synthetic biology-inspired human therapies. Located in Basel, Switzerland, the D-BSSE is renowned for its interdisciplinary research environment, uniting theoretical and experimental biology with advanced bioengineering, and fostering collaborations with leaders in material science, physics, and chemistry. This unique setting provides access to both academic and industrial expertise, especially within the BioValley region, which hosts a significant portion of the global life science industry.

The research projects will advance the frontiers of cell-based therapies and synthetic biology. The group applies state-of-the-art synthetic biology principles to engineer human cells, aiming to create next-generation cell-based therapies for cancer, metabolic, neurodegenerative, autoimmune, and infectious diseases. Innovative platforms such as biosensors, gene switches, genetic closed-loop circuits, and chemical structures are leveraged to design programmable cellular implants and devices for therapeutic applications. The integration of fundamental discoveries with translational development is central to shaping the future of biomedical innovation.

Postdoctoral researchers will combine 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 work is highly interdisciplinary, involving 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 for 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.