Christoph von Ballmoos

PhD position in Bottom-up Bioenergetics and Cell Metabolism at the University of Bern This PhD project sits at the interface of synthetic biology, biochemistry, bioenergetics, cell metabolism, membrane proteins, enzymology, and quantitative modelling . The work focuses on building cell-like systems from defined molecular components, with an emphasis on ATP and NAD(P)H regeneration, coupling energy modules to metabolic and biosynthetic pathways, and creating increasingly cell-like compartments in liposomes and giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). The project is led by the von Ballmoos group at the University of Bern and is embedded in a four-year SNSF project in collaboration with the Stavrakis/deMello group at ETH Zürich . The student will work on complementary aspects of synthetic vesicle generation and manipulation, including microfluidic technologies, reaction-network design, and the study of stability and energetic efficiency over time. Research tasks include establishing ATP- and NAD(P)H-dependent reaction networks, coupling them to cell-free protein synthesis and other metabolic processes, purifying and reconstituting membrane proteins into liposomes and GUVs, and characterising kinetics using spectroscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and quantitative modelling. The project also explores applications such as self-sustaining compartments for sustainable fine chemical production and programmable artificial cells for biomedical use. Eligibility: applicants should hold an MSc degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics, biotechnology, or a related field. Experience in protein purification, enzymology, membrane proteins, cell-free systems, fluorescence microscopy, or kinetic modelling is beneficial. Strong interest in quantitative biochemistry, bioenergetics, and synthetic biology is expected, along with good English communication skills and the ability to thrive in an interdisciplinary, collaborative environment. Funding and conditions: the position is a fixed-term 100% PhD appointment. The post is part of a funded SNSF project and includes structured doctoral training through the Graduate School of Cellular and Biomedical Sciences (GCB), plus access to strong infrastructure and an international network. No specific stipend amount is mentioned. Application deadline: 2026-11-20. Apply with a single PDF containing your CV, Bachelor and Master certificates and transcripts, and a letter of motivation via the online application portal.