Postdoc in 3D models for skin mechanobiology

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory within the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering (D-MAVT) at ETH Zurich in Zurich, Switzerland engineers and applies advanced polymeric materials for a range of biomedical and industrial uses. The recent focus of the group (www.macro.ethz.ch/ ) includes the development of (i) tools to study mechanobiology and cell-matrix interactions; (ii) biomaterial processing; (iii) organ perfusion and regeneration; (iv) rational design of polymer networks; and (v) engineered drug delivery systems. The lab is composed of a highly interdisciplinary and international team of motivated researchers. To expand on the design of engineered extracellular matrix mimics for skin bioengineering and mechanobiology with a direct impact on many of the current projects in the lab, the Macromolecular Engineering Lab is recruiting a full-time (100%) Postdoctoral Researcher.

Project background

This project is part of a collaborative and interdisciplinary effort involving researchers in cell biology, skin mechanics, and biomaterials to bring a new understanding of tissue-level response to mechanical stressors and translate this to clinical applications. The post-doctoral fellow in the Tibbitt group will focus on the design of novel biomaterial 3D models of skin tissue. The goal is to have a 3D in vitro system to mimic the ex vivo conditions and to control each of the physical state variables of the cell microenvironment in vitro. You are expected to collaborate with two PhD students on similar topics, and in close collaboration with the Mazza group (D-MAVT, ETHZ) and Werner group, D-BIOL, ETHZ). They will also have the freedom to develop their own line of research. We particularly welcome applicants with experience in 3D biomaterials for immune cells, co-culture of immune cells with fibroblasts, or proteomics application.

Job description

The main tasks will center around the design, synthesis, and characterization of 3D cell culture systems, application of dermal tissue mimics, biochemical analysis, imaging, and -omics analyses.

A solution-oriented and collaborative personality and spirit is required in this project that involves internal co-workers as well as co-workers from other disciplines across ETHZ.

Your profile

We are seeking for a curious, motivated and self-driven individual, who is comfortable working on interdisciplinary projects with aspects of mechanical engineering and bioengineering. Academic excellence, a professional work attitude, and a proactive and self-driven work ethic are expected. Moreover, the candidate must be able to fluently communicate in English (oral and written) and be willing to work in a highly interactive international team. Applicants must hold a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Mechanical engineering, Biomaterials, Chemical engineering, Cell Biology, Biophysics, Biochemistry or related fields. Experience with 3D cell culture and biological characterization is desired. Experience with 3D imaging, proteomics/MS or genetic engineering would be a plus. The position is funded for 2 years with the possibility of extension, at 100% employment, supervised by Dr. Céline Labouesse and Prof. Dr. Mark Tibbitt.

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

• Interdisciplinary research environment
• Supportive and collaborative work environment
• Flexibility in terms of experimental planning and working times
• A motivating and engaged research lab
• Freedom and support to explore independent ideas

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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following information as a single PDF:

• a cover letter of motivation that describes your scientific interest in this position and main scientific achievements to date (max. 2 pages)
• CV
• the contact details of three or more references

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 the Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory can be found on our website . For questions about the position, please contact Dr. Labouesse (clabouesse@ethz.ch ) or Prof. Tibbitt (mtibbitt@ethz.ch ) (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.