We are seeking a highly motivated, proactive and enthusiastic student for a PhD project in the Bio Engineering Laboratory who will want to work in an international environment.in the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering of ETH Zurich in Basel, Switzerland.

Within a project supported by the Swiss Cancer Research foundation, the student will investigate the intricate bidirectional interactions between glioma and neuronal cells.

The student will develop physiologically relevant cell culture models to recapitulate the glioma microenvironment in vitro. The functional characterization of neurons will be carried out using a diverse set of experimental techniques developed in our laboratory, ranging from large scale electrophysiological recordings using high-density microelectrode arrays (HD-MEAs) through patch clamping to high-resolution functional microscopy. The resulting large datasets will yield a comprehensive understanding of how glioma cells interact with neuronal networks and, reciprocally, how neuronal activity influences glioma progression.

Cell-culture and biological facilities, high-resolution microscopes, and a broad spectrum of engineering and testing equipment are available in the group.

The successful candidate should have a background in biology or biomedical engineering. Prior exposure to working with neuronal networks, iPSC differentiation and cancer biology as well as knowledge of programming tools and data analysis methods are important assets.

Being successful in the interdisciplinary field of neural networks and cancer research requires good communication skills and a proactive work attitude. The candidate must be able to fluently communicate in English (oral and written) and be willing to work in a highly interactive and collaborative international environment. Academic excellence, a professional work attitude, and a self-driven nature are expected.

The position is fully funded for 4 years; the starting date is flexible but must be before September 2024.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

We look forward to receiving your online application by May 15th 2024.

A complete application package includes

• a short and specific motivation statement for the advertised position (1/2 page)
• complete academic transcripts
• an up-to-date CV
• recommendation letters and contact information for 2-3 potential referees.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications submitted via e-mail or postal services or incomplete application packages will not be considered.

Further information about the Bio Engineering Laboratory can be found on our website. For more information on the position, please contact -exclusively via e-mail - Dr. Mario Modena (mario.modena@bsse.ethz.ch).

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.