Applications are invited for a funded PhD Student position in Bioprocess Technology – Upstream at the FHNW School of Life Sciences, based in Muttenz (Basel area), Switzerland. This doctoral project offers a unique opportunity to conduct cutting-edge applied research in collaboration with an industrial partner, rethinking how antibodies and viral vectors are produced.
Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher |
| Research Area | Bioprocess Technology, Upstream Processing & Automation |
| Host Institution | Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz (FHNW), School of Life Sciences |
| Department | Institute for Pharma Technology and Biotechnology |
| Workplace Location | Hofackerstrasse 30, 4132 Muttenz (Basel), Switzerland |
| Contract Duration | Initial 1-year contract with extension up to December 31, 2027 upon milestone completion |
| Application Deadline | 31 December 2026 |
Research Area
The research is situated within the Bioprocess Technology Laboratory. The successful candidate will focus on upstream process engineering, cell culture setups, automated bioreactor systems, perfusion processes, tangential flow filtration (TFF), and real-time process monitoring for antibody and viral vector manufacturing.
Scholarship / Position Description
As a doctoral student working closely with an industrial partner, you will combine state-of-the-art pump, filtration, and sensor technologies to develop next-generation upstream bioprocesses. Key responsibilities include:
- Designing, constructing, and automating bioreactor platforms integrated with pumps, flow sensors, and peripheral hardware.
- Developing and operating cell retention and filtration assemblies for perfusion and TFF operations.
- Establishing device communication, data acquisition pipelines, and advanced process control schemes.
- Executing mammalian cell cultures and analyzing experimental data to validate emerging technologies and control methods.
- Troubleshooting hardware and software challenges with innovative engineering solutions.
- Publishing scientific findings in high-impact journals and presenting at international conferences and partner meetings.
Benefits
- Targeted promotion and support for doctoral studies.
- State-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure and advanced equipment.
- Competitive Swiss academic salary and established implementation of equal pay.
- Annual working time model (42 hours/week) offering teleworking options.
- Mentoring programme tailored for academic and industrial career development.
- Access to comprehensive university sports and cultural programs.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Applicants must satisfy the following academic and technical criteria:
- Education: Master of Science (MSc) degree in Bioprocess Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Technical Track Record: Demonstrated experience in building, modifying, or operating laboratory/bioprocess equipment and flow systems.
- Bioprocess Expertise: Practical familiarity with mammalian cell culture techniques, antibody or viral vector expression, and downstream/perfusion filtration setups.
- Automation Skills: Exposure to sensors, data acquisition systems, and solid programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C/C++, or equivalent).
- Soft Skills: Highly structured, autonomous, and solution-driven approach with a passion for applied biopharma research.
- Language Proficiency: Excellent written and spoken English is mandatory; knowledge of German is an advantage.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their complete application documents (Curriculum Vitae, cover letter, degree certificates, and references) directly via the official FHNW online recruitment platform.
For inquiries regarding the scientific scope of the position, contact Prof. Dr. Thomas K. Villiger at thomas.villiger@fhnw.ch. For questions related to the recruitment process, contact HR Manager Cristina Kabas at cristina.kabas@fhnw.ch.
Click Here to Apply Online via Official Portal
Last Date to Apply
The closing date for applications is 31 December 2026. Review of applications will proceed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
