PhD position: Biomedical engineer for drug-releasing hernia repair meshes
Empa, a leading research institution in Switzerland and part of the ETH Domain, is offering a PhD position in its Laboratory for Advanced Fibers in St. Gallen. The project focuses on developing a new generation of hernia repair meshes with integrated drug-delivery functionality, aiming to reduce postoperative pain and prevent local infections. The research involves creating melt-spun, liquid-core polymer fibers capable of controlled release of analgesics and antimicrobials. Key tasks include developing drug-loaded fibers, investigating their diffusion behavior, mechanical stability, and stimuli-responsive properties, and fabricating and characterizing hernia mesh prototypes through mechanical, thermal, and in-vitro/ex-vivo performance testing. The position offers close collaboration with polymer scientists, surgeons, microbiologists, and biomedical engineers, and encourages dissemination of results through conferences and peer-reviewed publications. The successful candidate will prepare and defend a PhD thesis at RWTH Aachen University, under the supervision of Dr. Edith Perret (Empa) and Prof. Stefan Jockenhövel (RWTH Aachen). Applicants should have a Master’s degree in biomedical engineering or a related field, with a strong interest in medical textiles, biomaterials, and drug-delivery systems. Experience in polymer processing or biomedical testing is advantageous. The research environment is international and highly stimulating, with excellent infrastructure for polymer processing, fiber fabrication, and biomedical analysis. The position is based at Empa in St. Gallen, with enrollment as a PhD student at RWTH Aachen University. The expected duration is four years, starting as soon as possible or upon mutual agreement. Empa values inclusion and respect, welcoming applicants interested in innovative and meaningful research. Applications must be submitted online via the Empa job portal, including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas, and contact details of two reference persons.
