PhD Student Biology 100 % (w/m/d) – Balgrist University Hospital

Key information

Job ad expired
Workload:100%
Contract type:Unlimited employment
Language:German (Basic knowledge)
Place of work:Forchstrasse 340, 8008 Zürich

Balgrist University Hospital is one of the most renowned orthopedic clinics in Switzerland with international recognition and an affiliated center for paraplegia as well as for rehabilitation. Balgrist University Hospital offers one of the most modern and attractive research centers in Switzerland, where researchers from the University and ETH Zurich, physicians, developers, and industry work together to alleviate the problems of patients with musculoskeletal disorders. The Balgrist SPINE BIOMECHANICS group conducts research in the fields of biomechanics and computer-aided orthopedics and develops innovative solutions for improved surgical treatment.

Within the hospital, the Balgrist SPINE BIOMECHANICS group focuses on biomechanics and computer-aided orthopedics, developing innovative solutions for advanced surgical treatments. As part of this effort, we are seeking a motivated PhD student for a 4-year position to contribute to the development of a tendon-based nucleus replacement methodology. This project builds on the Vertebropexy (VPX) technique, a novel approach for fusion-free spinal stabilization, aiming to expand its clinical applications and improve treatment for unstable and degenerated spines.

«Research into the musculoskeletal system.
We're looking for you.»

Your tasks

Develop and apply in-vitro models, such as organ culture systems, to investigate the biological functions of nucleus replacement in disc restoration

Conduct experimental research on tendon-based methodologies to enhance current vertebropexy techniques for spine stabilization

Collaborate with the biomechanics-focused PhD candidate to integrate biological and mechanical insights for comprehensive treatment strategies

Analyze experimental data, publish research findings in scientific journals, and present results at conferences

Contribute to team discussions and stay updated on advancements in spine biology and tissue engineering

Your profile

MSc degree in Biomedical Sciences or related Life Science areas.

Experience/Education in a wet laboratory

Excellent communication (English) skills for an effective collaboration with all involved parties

High motivation, strong interest in research, durability to cope with challenges

Ability to solve complex tasks in a highly independent manner

Eligibility to apply and obtain a Visa for temporary residence is Switzerland

Familiarity with a cross-cultural/interdisciplinary environment is an advantage

Our offer

An interesting and varied job in exciting and innovative organizations

Working in a highly committed interdisciplinary team

Modern infrastructure

Employment conditions which match the requirements and offer a high degree of flexibility re working hours and location

Further benefits are just a click away: Attractive offer for our employees

Next steps

If you meet the requirements of this challenging opportunity, please submit your complete online application (motivation letter, CV, recent photograph, certificates, reference letters, etc.) through our online application system. Applications received via other channels will not be considered in the process.

The PhD will be formally supervised by ETH Zurich and conducted in accordance with its norms and standards. The official supervisors will be Prof. Ferguson. For further information, please contact PD. Dr. Jonas Widmer, Head of Spine Biomechanics (Write an email), or PD Dr. Stefan Dudli, Head of Spine Biology, (Write an email).

We look forward to receiving your online application.