PhD position on engineering of machine perfusion platforms for organ and tissue culture

PhD position at ETH Zurich in Zürich, Switzerland, focusing on engineering machine perfusion platforms for organ and tissue culture. The role requires a Master’s degree in engineering or a related field and involves interdisciplinary collaboration with biologists and clinicians.

This PhD position, hosted in the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering at ETH Zurich, focuses on developing machine perfusion platforms for organ and tissue culture. The role is embedded in an interdisciplinary team, collaborating with engineers, biologists, and clinicians to advance biomedical engineering solutions.

Responsibilities

• Gain in-depth knowledge of existing machine perfusion systems for human and rat liver applications.
• Design, assemble, and operate perfusion hardware using engineering principles.
• Create enhanced control software and integrate sensors for real-time monitoring of physiological conditions.
• Assist in ongoing perfusion experiments in partnership with clinical and biological research groups.
• Design and prototype next-generation perfusion platforms for emerging biological applications.
• Support lab operations and teaching activities, including student supervision and lab course assistance.

Requirements

• Hold a Master’s degree in mechanical, electrical, biomedical, process, robotics, or related engineering fields.
• Demonstrate fluent English communication skills, both spoken and written.
• Possess foundational knowledge in electromechanical system design, including sensors, actuators, pumps, and control systems.

Nice to have

• Hands-on experience with embedded systems programming and real-time control using tools like LabVIEW, Simulink Real-Time, ROS, C/C++, or STM32.
• Background in analog and digital PCB design.
• Experience with machine design and prototyping, including CAD modelling, 3D printing, and machining.
• Prior involvement in biomedical device or microfluidic device development.
• Practical experience in biology or clinical research settings.

What the company offers

• Work within the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering (D-MAVT) at ETH Zurich.
• Engage in a highly interdisciplinary and international research environment.
• Benefit from established collaborations with the Hub for Translational Research and Liver/GI Health.

About the company

ETH Zurich is a globally recognized leader in science and engineering, consistently ranked among the world’s top universities. The institution fosters an inclusive culture and values diversity, while being located in Zürich, an international city offering rich cultural, outdoor, and scientific opportunities.

• ETH Zurich promotes diversity and inclusion in its academic environment.
• The university is a global leader in science and engineering research.
• Zürich offers a vibrant international community with access to arts, culture, and outdoor recreation.