PhD Positions in Neurotechnology: Next Generation Non-invasive Neurotechnologies & Brain Therapies

Project background

We develop advanced focused ultrasound technologies, adaptive closed-loop control algorithms, and ultrasound-responsive micro/nano therapeutic carriers as an integrated precision drug delivery platform for the brain. Our approach employs a novel two-component ultrasound strategy that first concentrates drug carriers within the target region and subsequently triggers localized drug release, achieving high therapeutic concentrations exclusively at the desired site while minimizing systemic exposure. To ensure safe, precise, and reproducible therapy, the platform continuously monitors acoustic emissions from carriers, automatically adjusts ultrasound exposure in real time, and preserves blood–brain barrier integrity. By integrating therapeutic carrier design, robotics, medical imaging, real-time sensing, and intelligent control into a unified system, this technology establishes a new paradigm for precision neurotherapeutics and opens new opportunities for treating epilepsy, brain tumors, neurodegenerative diseases, psychiatric disorders, and other neurological disorders. The long-term goal of this project is to establish this technology as a clinically applicable therapeutic platform by integrating targeted drug delivery with advanced neuroimaging, electrophysiology, and closed-loop neuromodulation. The primary objective of this PhD project is to advance this technology from proof-of-concept toward clinical translation. Successful candidates will further develop the technology, investigate its therapeutic potential for neurological disorders, perform preclinical validation in rodent and large-animal models, and contribute to the preparation of first-in-human clinical studies. The project is conducted in close collaboration with Swiss Epilepsy Clinic Lengg, the Department of Neurosurgery at University Hospital Zurich, and the Vetsuisse Faculty of the University of Zurich.

Job description

The successful candidate will play a central role in the development and translation of our focused ultrasound-mediated targeted drug delivery platform.

Depending on experience and interests, the project may include:

• Development of next-generation focused ultrasound systems
• fMRI-guided treatment planning and targeting
• Optimization of targeted drug delivery and therapeutic dosing
• Development of closed-loop ultrasound neuromodulation systems
• Design of custom hardware and software
• Electrophysiology and multimodal neurophysiology
• Rodent and large-animal neuroscience experiments
• Translation of the technology toward clinical application
• Collaboration with clinicians to prepare first-in-human clinical studies
• Medical device development and regulatory approval

Profile

We are looking for highly motivated and creative researchers who enjoy solving challenging interdisciplinary problems.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in one of the following disciplines:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Physics
• Neuroscience
• Computer Science
• Chemistry
• or a closely related field

Ideal candidates should possess several of the following:

• Excellent academic record
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills
• Experimental laboratory experience (e.g., biomedical engineering, neuroscience, chemistry, optics, electrophysiology, or related fields)
• Programming experience (Python, MATLAB, C++, or similar)
• Interest in developing novel biomedical technologies
• Strong motivation for translational neuroscience and medical innovation
• Experience with mechanical design, machining, prototyping, or building custom experimental setups is highly desirable
• Previous experience with focused ultrasound, fMRI, electrophysiology, medical imaging, robotics, drug delivery, or biomedical instrumentation is advantageous

Because the project includes translational preclinical studies, candidates should be willing to participate in animal experiments.

We offer

The Neurotechnology Group at ETH Zurich provides one of Europe’s leading research environments for neurotechnology.

Our laboratory integrates, under one roof:

• High-field 7 Tesla MRI
• Two-photon and confocal microscopy
• State-of-the-art electrophysiology
• Brain-machine interfaces
• Mechanical and electronic prototyping workshops
• Access to advanced microfabrication facilities
• Chemical synthesis laboratories
• Cell culture facilities
• Behavioral neuroscience laboratories
• Small- and large-animal research facilities

Students will collaborate closely with scientists and clinicians across ETH Zurich, the University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, and Klinik Lengg.

The successful candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student in the Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering (D-ITET) at ETH Zurich, member of the Institute of Neuroinformatics, and the Neuroscience Center Zurich (ZNZ) PhD Program.

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.