Dr. Daniel A. Richards and Professor Andrew J. deMello, in the Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering at ETH Zürich, are seeking two postdoctoral researchers to develop a diagnostic device for multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MDR-MTB). This initiative aims to create a simple, portable, and affordable device for diagnosing MDR-MTB at the point-of-care. The project is funded by a SNSF BRIDGE Discovery grant, and candidates will work within a multi-institutional consortium, including the Swiss Centre for Microelectronics (CSEM), the Swiss Tropical Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), and the National Centre for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (NCTLD) in Tbilisi, Georgia. The first position requires a background in electrochemical biosensing, particularly for those experienced in combining molecular biology with electrochemistry. The second position is suited for individuals with a background in electrical engineering and device development. These are fixed-term positions for 24 months initially, with the potential for extension.
Tuberculosis (TB) claims approximately 1.25 million lives each year, making it the deadliest infectious disease globally. This disease overwhelmingly affects low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) — with 98% of global TB cases occurring in these regions, resulting in catastrophic consequences. The rise of antibiotic misuse has exacerbated the situation, leading to significant drug resistance; in the most severely impacted areas, drug resistance in recurring TB infections has surpassed 50%.
Early diagnosis can prevent most TB-related deaths. However, nearly a quarter of TB cases remain undiagnosed. The rapid development of drug resistance can be partially attributed to a lack of effective methods to identify resistance markers, leading to poor antibiotic stewardship. Unfortunately, existing diagnostic technologies are inadequate for diagnosing TB and associated drug resistances, particularly at the point-of-care (PoC). There are very few technologies available that can quickly and accurately diagnose TB while simultaneously detecting resistances; those that do exist tend to be large and costly, making them impractical for use in LMICs. Moreover, these technologies often rely heavily on sputum samples, which can be difficult to obtain in low-resource settings.
This project seeks to develop an affordable, portable, and rapid diagnostic platform capable of multiplexing 14 targets for TB and drug resistance markers from a single sample. The technology will be paper-based and utilize electrochemical signaling to enable miniaturization and provide quantitative disease readouts. These tests will be constructed using an innovative technology from ETHZ known as the laser-induced graphenization of cellulose. This manufacturing process is cost-effective, scalable, and rapid, making it ideal for creating PoC devices. Additionally, the project will incorporate novel CRISPR-Cas-based biosensing assays designed to detect single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) linked to drug resistance. To facilitate PoC deployment, CSEM will integrate these technologies into a highly affordable cartridge and reader system. The research team will receive support from the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute and the National Center for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease in Georgia, who will validate the technology with patient samples and conduct a small pilot study.
This device will bridge a critical gap in the current TB treatment pathway, delivering care to millions of underserved patients, particularly in LMICs. By enabling rapid TB diagnosis, the technology will facilitate more precise and timely medical interventions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and alleviating pressure on healthcare systems. Moreover, by focusing on common drug resistance markers, this tool will enhance antimicrobial stewardship and serve as a vital asset in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
We welcome applicants from computer science and/or imaging backgrounds interested in gaining expertise in bioengineering, IVDs, and global health, as well as researchers experienced in IVDs looking to transition towards mHealth and computer science. Coding skills are essential, and prior experience in automating high-throughput image capture and analysis, as well as app development, is advantageous.
Candidates should possess a PhD in a relevant science or engineering discipline. Evaluation will focus on overall experience, expertise, and ambitions rather than solely on specific research areas. Successful candidates will join an international research team and are expected to demonstrate high motivation and passion for science, engineering, and global health.
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge to society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university a place that fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located at the heart of Europe, we build connections worldwide to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.
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Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland