A fully funded PhD position in molecular microbiology focusing on bacterial biofilms is available in the research group of Prof. Knut Drescher at the Biozentrum, University of Basel, Switzerland. The successful candidate will join an international and multidisciplinary research team investigating the emergent behaviors of multicellular bacterial communities during growth and infections.
Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Student |
| Research Area | Molecular Microbiology / Bacterial Biofilms |
| Institution | Biozentrum, University of Basel |
| Consortium | Swiss NCCR AntiResist |
| Location | Basel, Switzerland |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Start Date | Immediately or by mutual agreement |
| Application Deadline | 15 November 2026 |
Designation
PhD Student (Doctoral Researcher) in Molecular Microbiology.
Research Area
The position is centered on Molecular Microbiology with a specific focus on Bacterial Biofilms. Key methodological and conceptual areas include transcriptomics, bacterial genetics, microfluidic growth systems, confocal microscopy, biophysics, and multicellular organization during chronic and acute infections.
Location
Department Biozentrum, University of Basel, Spitalstrasse 41, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.
Eligibility and Qualifications
- Required Qualification: A completed Master’s degree (or equivalent) with a research thesis in molecular microbiology.
- Skills and Profile: High motivation, strong academic background, curiosity for multidisciplinary life sciences, and interest in working with molecular tools, genetics, and microscopy.
- Language: Proficiency in English (TOEFL or GRE certificates can be uploaded if available, but are not mandatory).
Scholarship Description
The Biozentrum of the University of Basel is one of the world’s premier life sciences research institutes, comprising 33 research groups and approximately 500 employees. The research group led by Prof. Knut Drescher investigates how bacterial communities develop emergent properties and resist antibiotic treatment using microfluidic models, organoids, and bioengineered tissues.
Selected candidates will receive:
- A fully funded PhD contract according to the salary guidelines of the University of Basel and the Swiss National Science Foundation.
- Membership in the Swiss NCCR AntiResist network, fostering scientific exchange with leading clinical and basic research partners.
- Access to cutting-edge core facilities, state-of-the-art instrumentation, and a structured PhD training curriculum.
- A supportive, diverse, and international work setting in the border city of Basel.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the university’s online BIPED application portal. Email submissions will not be evaluated.
- Access the official online application form.
- Fill in personal details, educational background, and Swiss-converted academic grades.
- Upload your Curriculum Vitae (PDF format only).
- Upload degree certificates, diplomas, and official academic transcripts.
- Provide a summary of your past research experience (thesis projects, rationale, contributions, and any publications).
- Write a concise statement explaining your specific motivation and fit for this PhD project.
- Provide contact details for 2 to 3 academic references.
For informal enquiries regarding the position, you may contact Prof. Knut Drescher at: knut.drescher@unibas.ch.
Last Date for Apply
15 November 2026. Applications can be saved and edited on the portal up until the deadline, after which they are automatically submitted.
Apply Link
To submit your application, visit the official portal: Biozentrum Online Application Portal.
