2 PhD Positions in Analytical Chemistry/Biotechnology: Droplet Microfluidics for Reactions and Drug Screening

chevronleft Übersicht

chevronleft Übersicht

2 PhD Positions in Analytical Chemistry/Biotechnology: Droplet Microfluidics

for Reactions and Drug Screening

100%, Basel, fixed-term

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The Bioanalytics Group at the Department Biosystems Science and Engineering/ ETH Zurich in Basel develops a new generation of analytical instruments and methods for applications across the life sciences using microsystems technology.

Project background

Fast, efficient and sensitive: Reactions and analysis in nanoliter reactors. We offer two PhD positions to realize high throughput biotechnology, biochemical reactions and drug screening in so-called microdroplet arrays.

High-throughput screening methods are required to produce, find, test and analyze new compounds and effective drugs. To address this challenge, we employ droplet microfluidics, which allows for creation of thousands of tiny reaction vessels at high frequency of up to several kHz. The resulting emulsion has an excellent monodispersity, with droplet volumes in the range of pico- to nanoliters. The technique is used in combination with optical methods such as fluorescence spectroscopy. In addition, we employ mass spectrometry for more detailed analysis of the enclosed compounds or reaction products. We are now focussing on exciting applications of the method and improvements in automation and data analysis.

The combination of biological and technological aspects is central in our group. The realization of cutting-edge methods requires team work of researchers with different background. We are looking for two PhD candidates, who have strong disposition to learn and improve analytical and biochemical methods and are very open to different research disciplines.

Job description

The two PhD students will work closely together on the fabrications of microstructured targets for droplet creation, establishing a work process for rapid mass spectrometry imaging and development of assays for (i) biochemical reactions and cell-free synthesis of peptides or (ii) drug tests on microbial cells in addition to that they will also work closely in the development of workflows for data acquisition and analysis in Writing of scientific publications and Supervision of students`projects and lab course.

Your profile

We are looking for highly motivated candidates with:

a strong interest to work at the interface of applied topics in the natural sciences/life sciences, and technology development.

a Master`s Degree in Chemistry/Analytical Chemistry or Biotechnology or related fields such as Pharmaceutical Sciences or Microbiology.

a strong interest in analytical methods, and ideally, you have already practical experience in mass spectrometry.

Previous experiences in the field of microfluidics/lab-on-chip technology are helpful.

Your workplace Your workplace We offer

We offer you an intellectually challenging position in the inspiring atmosphere of an interdisciplinary team. The PhD candidates will start in our brand-new building in the centre of Basel, offering excellent infrastructure and working conditions. Further information about our group and the Department can be found on the websites Bioanalytics Group and Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering.

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We value diversity

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.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

A letter describing your background and motivation

CV including publication list

Two reference letters

Certificates (doctoral degree, master certificate)

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Petra S. Dittrich, email ([email protected]) (no applications).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

A letter describing your background and motivation

CV including publication list

Two reference letters

Certificates (doctoral degree, master certificate)

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Petra S. Dittrich, email ([email protected]) (no applications).

Apply online now

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

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