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 developing nanotherapeutics to treat post-surgery endophthalmitis. This project aims to tackle the growing threat posed by bacterial infections with antimicrobial resistance through cutting-edge nanomaterials engineering. This highly interdisciplinary project is supported by the Heinz A. Oertli-Fonds and will be conducted in collaboration with the Clinic for Infectious Diseases at the Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen.

Your tasks

The student will develop multifunctional nanoparticles to efficiently eradicate multidrug-resistant bacteria and mitigate retinal damage caused by bacterial infections. The project will involve the synthesis and physicochemical characterization of the nanoparticles, as well as biological assessment in relevant in vitro systems. Additionally, the student will establish an ex vivo endophthalmitis model to demonstrate the efficacy of the nanocomplexes under conditions closely simulate in vivo environment.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic candidate with a strong background in material engineering, biology, microbiology and/or chemistry, who wants to pursue cutting-edge research oriented towards clinical applications.

A completed Master's degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, (Micro)Biology or a related discipline is mandatory. Hands-on experience in wet chemistry, materials synthesis and/or biological experiments is required. Self-driven curiosity and strong observational skills during experimentation are highly desirable. Fluency in both verbal and written English is required.

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 microbiology, materials engineering, biology, ex vivo models and biomedical engineering and we are strongly connected to external collaborators and clinical partners to ensure the project's success. Additionally, Empa offers outstanding infrastructure, career support, networking opportunities and competitive salaries. The position is available starting February 2025 or upon agreement, with a planned duration of three to 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.

Questions?