PhD in Synthetic Biology Translational Cell Therapies

A World-Class Research Environment at the Nexus of Biology, Engineering, and Physical Sciences

The Biotechnology and Bioengineering group led by Prof. Dr. Martin Fussenegger at the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) of the ETH Zurich in Basel invites exceptional candidates to apply for a PhD position in pioneering projects developing synthetic biology-inspired human therapies.

The D-BSSE is the first truly interdisciplinary research department, uniting theoretical and experimental biology with advanced bioengineering and fostering close collaborations with leaders in material science, physics, and chemistry to drive transformative advances in systems biology, biotechnology, and synthetic biology. Situated in Basel, Switzerland, at the heart of the Bio Valley, a tri-national region that hosts 40% of the global life science industry and numerous major pharmaceutical companies, the D-BSSE offers a unique environment for high-impact translational research with unparalleled access to academic and industrial expertise.

Advancing the Frontiers of Cell-based therapies and Synthetic Biology

Our group applies state-of-the-art synthetic biology principles to engineer human cells and create next-generation cell-based therapies targeting cancer as well as metabolic, neurodegenerative, autoimmune and infectious diseases. Leveraging innovative platforms such as novel biosensors, gene switches, genetic closed-loop circuits, and chemical structures that interface with and actuate cellular activities, we design programmable cellular implants and devices for therapeutic applications. By integrating fundamental discoveries with translational development, we aim to shape the future of biomedical innovation.

• PhD projects will combine molecular engineering, cell programming, and chemical–biological interfacing to engineer human cells using synthetic gene circuits and biosensing platforms, develop novel biosensing systems for real-time monitoring of cellular states, create genetic architectures for precise therapeutic protein regulation, and translate these research advances into programmable cellular implant prototypes
• Projects will be highly interdisciplinary, fostering close collaboration with molecular biologists, bioengineers, and clinical researchers to accelerate translation into clinically relevant therapies

• We are seeking highly motivated applicants eager to bridge basic and translational research in cell biology and synthetic biology
• Candidates should have strong skills in molecular and cell biology techniques, including cultivation and engineering of primary human cells and mammalian cell lines. Experience with in vivo techniques, as well as completion of an accredited course in laboratory animal science (FELASA / LTK or equivalent), would be an asset
• We welcome applicants with an outstanding academic record and who are enthusiastic about building a career in academia, industrial R&D, or biotechnology entrepreneurship

• Your job with impact:
  Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
• We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university
• You can expect numerous benefits , such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ , childcare and attractive pension benefits

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

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.

Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working…