PhD Position in Immunology

ETH Zurich

Position: PhD Position in Immunology & Biomaterials
Employment: 100%, fixed-term
Location: Zurich, ETH Zurich

Position Overview

We invite applications for a fully funded PhD position in the Zindel Lab (Department of Biology, ETH Zurich), in close collaboration with the Tibbitt Lab (Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich). This interdisciplinary project investigates how the immune system responds to implanted materials, aiming to develop strategies that improve tissue integration and patient outcomes. The work will combine in vivo biology, advanced imaging, materials science, and polymer engineering.

Project Background

The Hydrophobic Effect as a Danger Signal in Foreign Body Biology

Implantable medical devices such as joint replacements, hernia meshes, and intraocular lenses are central to modern medicine. Many implants, however, still trigger inflammation and scarring, shortening their functional lifetime.

This PhD project addresses a fundamental question: Does hydrophobicity act as a universal immune danger signal?

Using animal models, primary human cell systems, and multiphoton microscopy, the candidate will explore the molecular and cellular mechanisms of foreign body reactions. In parallel, the candidate will collaborate with engineers to design and test microgels with tunable surface properties, linking materials chemistry to immune recognition and tissue repair.

Job Description

• Perform experimental biology in the Zindel Lab, including surgical in vivo mouse models and intravital multiphoton imaging
• Fabricate and characterize new biomaterials in the Tibbitt Lab, developing microgels with varying hydrophilicity (diameters on the order of tens of microns)
• Investigate innate immune responses to biomaterials at cellular and molecular levels
• Develop skills in soft material fabrication and characterization, mechanical characterization, chemical formulation, bioconjugate chemistry, fluorophore labeling, and fluorescence imaging
• Integrate biological and engineering insights to develop mechanistic models of implant integration

Profile

• Strong passion for both biomedical research and materials engineering, either as a biologist exploring materials science or a materials scientist exploring immune biology
• Master’s degree in a relevant field is required
• Strong interest in immunology, tissue regeneration, and translational medicine
• Prior experience with animal models is an advantage; willingness to perform animal work is essential
• Motivation to learn materials fabrication and characterization through collaboration
• Enthusiasm for working in an interdisciplinary, international research environment

Workplace & Benefits

• Home base in the Zindel Lab (D-BIOL, Campus Hönggerberg), supervised by Prof. Zindel, focusing on immunology and tissue regeneration
• Close collaboration with the Tibbitt Lab (D-MAVT, Campus Zentrum), co-supervision by Prof. Tibbitt, with expertise in macromolecular engineering
• Supportive, interdisciplinary training environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities in imaging, biology, and soft material fabrication
• Integration into SKINTEGRITY.CH, a nationwide network of scientists, engineers, and clinicians
• Opportunity to contribute to the development of next-generation medical implants designed to improve millions of lives

Diversity & Inclusion

ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity, valuing diversity, and nurturing a working and learning environment in which all staff and students’ rights and dignity are respected.

Application Procedure

Please submit the following documents via the online application portal:

• Motivation letter
• CV, including a list of publications
• Master’s diploma with transcript of grades

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Joel Zindel at joel.zindel@biol.ethz.ch (applications via email will not be accepted).

Note: Pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters, not by artificial intelligence.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. The university is renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. ETH Zurich hosts over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, fostering independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence.

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