PhD Student Disc and Cartilage Biology

PhD Student Disc and Cartilage Biology (ID1891)

Join to apply for the PhD Student Disc and Cartilage Biology (ID1891) role at AO Foundation.

ARI’s Regenerative Orthopaedics program is a multidisciplinary team taking a holistic approach to regenerative medicine for the repair of musculoskeletal injuries and degeneration. We combine specialist knowledge in cell and molecular biology, microbiology, polymer chemistry, and bioengineering to investigate cell‑material interactions in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo. We are highly experienced in the development of ex vivo organ models and complex bioreactor systems that are used to apply physiological load and reduce the number of animal studies required in accordance with 3R principles.

The objectives of this consortium project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation are the fabrication of a full intervertebral disc model using cells and biomaterials, the implementation of degenerative conditions and mechanical loading, and the validation of the system through interaction with immune cells and anti‑inflammatory compounds.

• Fabricate a mechanically loaded, cell‑seeded intervertebral disc model at AO Research Institute Davos, working with 3D bioprinted models, uniaxial and multiaxial bioreactor systems, and mechanical loading.
• Design, apply, and validate innovative preclinical models that help understand disc degeneration mechanisms and test new therapies.
• Collaborate closely with the second PhD student on the same project and with French partners from Nantes University and Sorbonne University.
• Contribute to every aspect of model development.

• Background in biomedical sciences with an interest in tissue engineering.
• MSc degree with excellent marks and experience in cell biology, biochemistry, or bioengineering.
• Practical experience in cell/tissue culture.
• Experience in biochemical and molecular biological analysis techniques.
• Enthusiastic, excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Member of the Disc and Cartilage Biology Focus Area within the Regenerative Orthopaedics Program.
• Participation in the PhD Programme within the D-HEST of ETH Zürich.
• Good English language skills and a suitable work ethic.
• Familiarity with a cross‑cultural/interdisciplinary environment (advantage).
• Eligibility to apply and obtain a visa for temporary residence in Switzerland.

• Starting date: 1 June 2026; duration: 4 years.
• Only applications received via the AO job portal will be considered.
• Review of applications will start mid January 2026 due to the holiday season.

• An interesting and varied job in an exciting and innovative organization.
• The opportunity to be part of a highly committed international team.
• Modern infrastructure.
• High degree of flexibility regarding working hours and location (depending on operational requirements).
• Generous package of social benefits, including supplementary vacation days and pension scheme contributions.
• Internal skills‑training opportunities and support for continued education.

• Not Applicable

• Contract

• Research

• Hospitals and Health Care, Medical Equipment Manufacturing, and Research Services