Postdoc 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 postdoctoral position in advanced bioelectronic and electrical conversion research. Based at the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) in Basel, this group operates at the intersection of synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and bioelectronics, providing a world-class interdisciplinary research environment. D-BSSE unites theoretical and experimental biology with advanced bioengineering, collaborating closely with leaders in materials science, physics, and chemistry to drive transformative advances in systems biology, biotechnology, and synthetic biology.

Located in Basel, Switzerland, within the BioValley region—a hub for global life sciences and pharmaceutical industries—the group offers unparalleled access to academic and industrial expertise. The research focuses on integrating synthetic biology with 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. Innovative platforms such as direct-current-actuated regulation, electromagnetic programming of wireless expression, and closed-loop systems are leveraged to translate these technologies into clinically relevant, minimally invasive therapies for cancer, metabolic, neurodegenerative, autoimmune, and infectious diseases.

The postdoctoral projects will combine catalyst engineering, computational simulation, bioelectrode device fabrication, and electrical engineering to develop bioelectronic interfaces for closed-loop programming of cellular behavior and real-time monitoring of metabolic activity. Opportunities also exist to design novel bioelectronic implants and develop specialized control software. Applicants should have a background in physics, material science, or chemistry, ideally with expertise in bioelectronics or software simulations, or a strong willingness to acquire it, alongside solid knowledge of electrochemistry and materials chemistry. Candidates must be eager to collaborate with molecular biologists and bioengineers, demonstrate a strong academic record, and have ambition for a career in industrial R&D or entrepreneurship.

ETH Zürich offers numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, sports facilities, childcare, and attractive pension benefits. The university values diversity, sustainability, and equality of opportunity, fostering an inclusive culture and climate-neutral future. Applications must be submitted exclusively through the 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 post will not be considered. For further information, candidates may contact Professor Martin Fussenegger or visit the group website.

ETH Zürich is renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, the university promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence, working together to develop solutions for global challenges.