PostDoc to develop a novel bioadhesive for corneal repair 80% - 100 % (a)

Empa, Switzerland

Updated: 3 months ago

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 Laboratory for Biointerfaces performs material-related research and focuses on understanding, characterizing and steering interactions of biomolecules, bacteria and human cells at surfaces for materials-based healthcare solutions.

Your tasks


An insult to the cornea - if untreated - eventually leads to corneal opacification and blindness. Around 90% of the cases occur in developing countries, and most of these cases would be preventable with appropriate treatment. We are therefore developing a smart, functional bioadhesive with disease-controlled autoregulation to treat infected corneal ulcers.


In the frame of this project, you will work with a team of scientists with backgrounds in chemistry, cell biology and microbiology as well as with clinical partners on the development of a novel bioadhesive to treat corneal ulcers. You will refine the formulation of the bioadhesive, tune its properties and subsequently functionalize it to achieve potent anti-microbial and tissue-regenerative activity using state of the art facilities and equipment.


Your profile


  • PhD degree in biomedical engineering or a related field 
  • Enthusiastic and curious personality 
  • High motivation to work in an interdisciplinary project 
  • Experience with hydrogels and cell culture work 
  • Excellent skills at science communication (verbal and written)

Our offer


We offer... 


... a highly stimulating research environment in the Empa laboratories in St. Gallen. 

... easy access to outstanding infrastructure and equipment. 

... an experienced project team with clinical partners in Switzerland and India. 

... support to present work at scientific conferences and to publish in high quality journals. 

... support for personal development.

This position is immediately available and for a period of two years with the possibility for an extension.


«a» stands for «all» in our job advertisements. 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


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