PhD and Postdoc Positions for Supramolecular Catalytic Systems
100%, Basel, fixed-term
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 the ETH Zurich in Basel invites exceptional candidates to apply for PhD and postdoctoral positions in pioneering projects developing synthetic biology-inspired supramolecular catalytic systems for therapeutic applications.
The D-BSSE is the 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 BioValley, a tri-national region that hosts 40% of the global life science 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.
Project background
Advancing the Frontiers of Supramolecular Nanocatalysis and Synthetic Biology
Our group applies state-of-the-art synthetic biology principles to engineer human cells and create next-generation cell-based therapies targeting cancer as well as metabolic, neurodegenerative, autoimmune and infectious diseases. Leveraging innovative platforms such as novel biosensors, gene switches, genetic closed-loop circuits, and chemical structures that interface with and actuate cellular activities, we design programmable cellular implants and nanocatalytic devices capable of responding to a wide spectrum of biochemical cues (e.g., glucose, ATP, disease biomarkers) and physical stimuli (e.g., light, electromagnetic fields, acoustic signals). By integrating AI-assisted supramolecular chemistry, biocatalyst engineering, molecular simulation, and translational development, we aim to deliver long-acting, drug-free therapeutic systems for precise metabolic regulation and disease intervention. These programmable molecular systems are designed for real-time, minimally invasive diagnosis and therapy, with potential scalability for applications ranging from advanced personalized medicine to accessible healthcare solutions in resource-limited settings.
Job description
Your Role in Advancing Supramolecular Nanocatalysis
PhD and postdoctoral projects will combine AI-assisted supramolecular chemistry, biocatalytic engineering and advanced molecular design to develop synthetic supramolecular nanocatalysts, enabling closed-loop programming of human cells for efficient real-time in situ diagnosis and therapeutic intervention. There will also be opportunities to develop novel supramolecular implants and nanodevices, create control interfaces that seamlessly integrate with biological systems, and explore platform technologies for broader biomedical applications. Projects will be highly interdisciplinary, fostering close collaboration with molecular biologists, bioengineers, electrical engineers and clinical researchers to accelerate translation into clinically relevant therapies.
Profile
We are seeking highly motivated applicants eager to bridge basic and translational research in supramolecular chemistry and synthetic biology. Candidates should have strong skills in supramolecular chemistry, biocatalyst and molecular engineering, including cultivation and engineering of primary human cells and mammalian cell lines, as well as an outstanding academic record (PhD applicants) or strong publication record (Postdoc applicants). Experience in complementary fields such as computational modelling, bioelectronics, or materials engineering is advantageous, as is a willingness to acquire new interdisciplinary skills. Candidates should show enthusiasm for working across disciplines and a clear ambition to pursue a career in academia, industrial R&D, or biotechnology entrepreneurship.
Workplace
Workplace
We offer
- 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 and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits
We value diversity
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:
- CV
- Complete academic transcripts
- A list of publications
- A motivation letter
- Two letters of recommendation (three for postdoctoral applicants)
- A brief research plan (1 page for PhD candidates, 3 pages for Postdocs)
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
Further information about our Department can be found on our website, consult our published work. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Professor Martin Fussenegger at martin.fussenegger@bsse.ethz.ch by mail (no applications).