PhD in Bioelectronic Interfaces & Closed-Loop Cell Control

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 ETH Zurich in Basel invites exceptional candidates to apply for a PhD position in pioneering projects at the intersection of synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and bioelectronics
.

The D-BSSE is ETH Zurich's first truly interdisciplinary research department uniting theoretical and experimental biology with advanced bioengineering and fostering close collaborations with leaders in materials 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 percent of the global life sciences 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.

Our group integrates state‑of‑the‑art synthetic biology with advanced nanotechnology, and electrogenetic interfaces to engineer human cells for next‑generation bioelectronic medicine, designing programmable cells that respond to electrical, electromagnetic, acoustic and biochemical cues to achieve wireless, real‑time control of therapeutic protein expression and metabolic regulation. Leveraging innovative platforms such as direct‑current‑actuated regulation
, electromagnetic programming of wireless expression
, and closed‑loop systems
, we aim to translate these technologies into clinically relevant, minimally invasive therapies for cancer, as well as metabolic, neuro‑degenerative, autoimmune, and infectious diseases.

• PhD projects will combine catalyst engineering, computational simulation, bioelectrode device fabrication, and electrical engineering to develop bioelectronic interfaces enabling closed‑loop programming of cellular behaviour and real‑time monitoring of metabolic activity
• There will also be opportunities to design novel bioelectronic implants and develop specialized control software

• We are seeking highly motivated applicants with 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 should be eager to collaborate closely with molecular biologists and bioengineers and demonstrate a strong academic record with the ambition to pursue a career in industrial R&D, or 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, car sharing, a wide range of sports, childcare and attractive pension 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.

Curious? So are we.

Applications must be submitted exclusively through our online application portal and should include:

• CV
• Complete academic transcripts
• A list of publications
• A motivation letter
• Two letters of recommendation
• A brief research plan (1 page)

Applications sent via e‑mail or post will not be considered. For further information visit our group website, consult our published work, or contact Professor Martin Fussenegger (martin.fusseneggerz.ch).