PhD Position: Nanotechnology for Chemical Sensing

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The research of the Human-​centered Sensing Laboratory centers around physics, chemistry and medicine to gain new fundamental understanding in micro/nanosystems for receptors and transducers to advance their fabrication and application in chemical sensing. The development of new technologies from conceptuation to device engineering with validated performance under real conditions tackling healthcare and environmental issues are a particular emphasis. Embedded at ETH Zürich and closely connected to the University Hospital Zürich, our lab features a unique bouquet of fundamental and applied research to respond to our society’s needs.

Project background

Modern electronic devices (e.g. smartphones) are indispensable tools for billions of people. They interact with us through voice recognition, and activity tracking, give us orientation, record videos and connect us by communication with the world. Surprisingly, chemical recognition is missing. Equipped with chemical sensing, such devices could provide critical health data on demand through non-invasive breath analysis or prevent severe diseases by warning us from exposure to toxicants. Yet, such sensors are not established in daily practice, mainly due to their limited selectivity, sensitivity and stability. Nanotechnology offers solutions to tackle these challenges by creating sensing materials with large specific surface areas and tailored surface chemistry to distinctly interact with molecules.

Job description

This full-time position offers students an exciting opportunity to perform cutting-edge research on the fundamentals and applications of nanostructured gas sensors. You will join an inclusive, diverse, and supportive working environment that praises scientific curiosity and creativity. The earliest starting date is February 2023.

Your profile

• You should have a recent Master's degree (or be close to its completion) in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical), Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics or closely related disciplines from an internationally recognized university.
• We are looking for someone who is highly motivated, creative, and excited to work in interdisciplinary teams. Although we welcome individuals with diverse backgrounds, prior experience in the following fields is a plus:
  • chemoresistive gas sensing
  • nanotechnology: fabrication and characterization techniques
  • microfabrication & clean-room training

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

chevron_right Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our

Equal Opportunities and Diversity website

to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your application with the following documents:

Cover letter with the description of your research achievements and research interests

Detailed CV

Transcripts of all degrees including ranking informatio (English)

Names and contact information of at least three references

Representative published research work (Papers, thesis if possible).

Please submit the application documents using only the ETH online portal in a single merged PDF document, titled with your last name and initials as well as the application date (for example, 20230101_name_application).

For more information on our group can be found on our website . For further information please contact Prof. Andreas Güntner, [email protected] (e-mail applications will not be considered).

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.