PhD Position in Bacteria and Materials Interactions

Organisation/Company Empa Research Field Biological sciences » Other Engineering » Other Technology » Biotechnology Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Country Switzerland Final date to receive applications 20 Jan 2026 - 22:59 (UTC) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.

The Bacteria and Materials Interactions Group at the Biointerfaces Laboratory is offering a PhD position focused on development of nanoengineered antimicrobial coatings. This project aims to tackle the growing challenge of infections caused by resistant bacteria through designing innovative, non-toxic, and durable antimicrobial solutions. This highly interdisciplinary project will be conducted in collaboration with several Swiss hospitals, offering a potential translation of scientific advancements into practical applications.

PhD Position in Bacteria and Materials Interactions

Your tasks
The PhD research will focus on developing innovative multifunctional coatings with integrated antimicrobial properties. Key objectives include:

• Design and synthesis of multifunctional antimicrobial coatings.
• Materials and physicochemical characterization of the fabricated coatings.
• Exploration of how material properties influence bacterial viability and biofilm formation.
• Identification and elucidation of the modes of action of bacterial killing/repelling.

The research aims to provide fundamental insights into bacteria & material interactions and contribute to the creation of next‑generation antimicrobial materials with clinical relevance.

Your profile
The candidate should hold a Master’s degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Materials Science, Bioengineering, or a related discipline, with a strong interest in antimicrobial materials and bacteria & surface interactions. Key qualifications include:

• Hands‑on experience with microbiological methods, material characterization, or polymer/ nanoparticle/ hydrogel synthesis.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with high scientific curiosity.
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.
• Excellent communication skills in English (both written and spoken).

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic PhD candidate who is eager to engage in cutting‑edge research and contribute to the success of the project.

Our offer
The Biointerfaces Laboratory is located in St. Gallen at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa). Our team is highly interdisciplinary and international, providing an inspiring environment for high impact research. We have internal expertise in (micro) biology, chemistry, and materials engineering, and we have strong collaborations with external academic, industrial, and clinical partners to ensure project success.

Additionally, Empa offers outstanding infrastructure, career support, networking opportunities, and competitive salaries. The position is available from January 2026 or after negotiation with a duration of four years.

We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities - that's what counts.

We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e‑mail and by post will not be considered.