PhD Position in Electrochemical Sensing for Health Applications (SDC18)

PhD Position in Electrochemical Sensing for Health Applications (SDC18)

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

ENDOTRAIN is a Horizon Europe Doctoral Training Network devoted to transforming the diagnosis and management of adrenal disorders through cutting-edge digital tools. This initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of interdisciplinary experts who integrate clinical endocrinology, artificial intelligence, data science, engineering, ethics, and law into a comprehensive field of digital endocrinology. Are you interested in joining this vibrant team?

ETH Zürich is among Europe's premier technical universities, situated in the heart of Switzerland. The PhD candidate will be positioned within the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering as well as the Department of Health Sciences and Technology, providing a unique interdisciplinary blend of advanced research in engineering, health, and technology.

Project Background

This project is part of Work Package 2 of the ENDOTRAIN network, focusing on the use of nanotechnology-enhanced electrochemical sensors for highly sensitive, selective, and reversible biomarker sensing. The research will emphasize the design and fabrication of functional electrode coating materials (nano-enzymes) and surface architectures that facilitate reversible analyte binding, demonstrate high signal stability, and exhibit resistance to biofouling for long-term operation.

The PhD candidate will work closely with the Human-centered Sensing Laboratory (led by Prof. Andreas Güntner) and the Laboratory of Exercise and Health (led by Prof. Katrien de Bock).

Job Description

The candidate will engage full-time in this project. It is essential that they have not resided or undertaken their primary activities (work, studies, etc.) in Switzerland for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately preceding their recruitment date. The student will enroll in the structured PhD programme offered by either the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering or the Department of Health Sciences and Technology. Participation in the multidisciplinary training of the ENDOTRAIN network will be mandatory, including workshops, retreats, transferable skills courses, and cohort-wide meetings held across Europe.

Specific Tasks May Include:

• Engineering of redox-active or affinity-based interfaces (nanoparticles, single-atom isolates, artificial enzymes) with tunable binding kinetics.
• Integrating these with transduction schemes that provide high sensitivity and selectivity in complex media.
• Validating in controlled in vitro and ex vivo systems, enabling quantitative correlations between electrochemical signals and dynamic biochemical processes.
• Supporting in vivo tests in mouse models and clinical trials.

Secondments:

• Imperial College London (UK): Electrochemical sensing strategies.
• University Hospital Zurich (CH): Testing of samplers on humans.

Profile

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with:

• A Master’s degree (MSc or equivalent) in (Electro-)Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• A strong interest in translational health technologies.
• Excellent command of written and spoken English.
• Good communication skills and the capacity for interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Ideally, experience in sensor design, nanoparticle fabrication, or single-atom catalysts.

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for Swiss-based PhD positions and be willing to engage in training activities across Europe.

Starting date: before August 2026.

Workplace

ETH Zurich is recognized as a family-friendly employer and boasts excellent working conditions. You can anticipate an exciting work environment, cultural diversity, and attractive offers and benefits.

We Offer

• Competitive salary according to Swiss National Science Foundation regulations.
• Comprehensive social security coverage in Switzerland.
• A travel and secondment budget.
• Opportunities for international networking, industry exposure, and career development.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity. We value diversity and strive to create a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are dedicated to creating a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your application, which should include the following documents:

• Cover letter detailing your research achievements and interests.
• Detailed CV.
• Transcripts of all degrees, including ranking information (in English).
• Names and contact information for at least three references.
• Representative published research work (papers, thesis if applicable).

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Informal inquiries may be directed to Prof. Andreas Güntner (andregue@ethz.ch). Further information about the involved research groups can be found at the Human-centered Sensing Laboratory and the Laboratory of Exercise and Health websites.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is a leading global university specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our exceptional education, pioneering fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, our university thrives as a space promoting independent thought and inspiring excellence. Nestled in the heart of Europe while maintaining global connections, we work collaboratively to develop solutions for the pressing challenges of today and tomorrow.