System-Engineer Cell Culture Automation

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 Nanomaterials in Health department at Empa St. Gallen is a highly motivated team of biologists, chemists and bioinformaticians. Our aim is understanding and controlling the interactions between (nano) materials and biological systems. To this end, we develop practical, clinically and diagnostically relevant cell-based models such as co‑cultures and organoids.

• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to develop concepts for automating complex cell culture processes using robotics
• Conduct needs analyses to define the required system specifications and functional requirements
• Support the Laboratory Head in evaluating, comparing and selecting suitable robotic systems and assist throughout the procurement process
• Lead the implementation of the selected system, including its configuration and the programming of automated workflows and procedures

• Master’s degree in life sciences, engineering, or equivalent education
• At least 3 years of professional experience in programming and operating laboratory automation and liquid-handling systems, as well as in related quality management
• Experience in adapting and optimizing cell-based and in vitro assays
• Knowledge of mammalian cell culture systems and 3D cell cultures (organoids)
• Expertise in software such as R, KNIME or Python
• An independent, reliable and goal-oriented work style
• You are not afraid to take on responsibility, tackle new tasks and independently acquire the necessary expertise
• You have an open and communicative personality and enjoy working in a multidisciplinary environment
• Good oral and written proficiency in German and English is required: you must be fluent in everyday use of both languages

• A challenging and varied role in the field of cutting-edge international research
• Progressive working conditions, an open work environment, excellent opportunities for professional development and a modern workplace in St. Gallen
• Initial 2‑year fixed‑term position—with the possibility of extension
• Flexible working hours, flat hierarchies, knowledge exchange, working together in a team
• Ideal starting date: 1 November 2026 or upon agreement

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, reporting on 1-2 representative tasks / experiences supporting your skills, 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.

Prof. Dr. Peter Wick
Head of Lab
Nanomaterials in Health

Empa
Lerchenfeldstrasse 5
9014 St. Gallen

• Innovative, sustainable, meaningful activities
• Creating added value for society
• International, multicultural working environment
• Freedom to create and develop
• Culture of inclusion and respect
• Excellent balance between different areas of life
• Multiple award‑winning and certified employer
• Benefits for rail, mobile, childcare, catering, etc.