PhD Position in Polymeric Fiber Biomaterials: Microfluidic wet spinning of hydrogel-coated functional sutures

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 project aims to develop functional sutures by microfluidic wet spinning and demonstrate their potential application in soft tissue surgeries with ex vivo models.

Your tasks

• Polymer synthesis, functionalization and characterization
• Microfluidic wet spinning of polymer fibers
• Characterization of polymer fibers: mechanical and structural properties 
• Disseminating the research through scientific publications, conference posters and presentations, as well as other avenues for the general public
• Communicate with clinical experts

Your profile

• Master's degree and strong background in polymer science or microfluidics 
• Highly motivated and good communication skills for working in a multidisciplinary environment 
• Proficient in spoken and written English for scientific publications and national/international conference presentations
• Previous experience in one or more of the following topics is required: X-ray analytics, antimicrobial materials, hydrogels

Our offer

We offer an international, highly stimulating research environment with excellent infrastructure for personal and professional development. You will be working at Empa St. Gallen, in a joint research group of the Laboratory for

Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles

and the Laboratory for

Biointerfaces

, focusing on the development of functional soft materials for tissue engineering and regeneration applications with close collaboration with clinical partners.

You will be enrolled at ETH Zürich (with Prof. Dr. René Rossi). This full time position is immediately available upon agreement, with a planned period of 4 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.

SarahStüdli, Bereichspersonalleiterin / HR Partner