Summary
Empa, a leading research institution within the ETH Domain, is offering a PhD position in the Biointerfaces Laboratory in St. Gallen. This fully funded position focuses on developing innovative living hydrogel systems for the treatment of wound infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria and biofilms, combining probiotics and bacteriophages for infection eradication and tissue regeneration.
Designation
PhD Researcher
Scholarship Description
This PhD project aims to develop a new generation of injectable therapeutic hydrogels that integrate beneficial probiotics and bacteriophages. The goal is to create systems that can simultaneously eradicate bacterial infections, particularly those caused by antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria and biofilms, and promote tissue regeneration in wound infections. The research has a strong translational focus, aiming to advance these living therapeutic systems towards clinically relevant solutions. The successful candidate will be involved in designing and synthesizing hydrogel systems, encapsulating and delivering probiotics and bacteriophages, engineering antimicrobial strategies, characterizing hydrogel properties and biological functionality, evaluating therapeutic potential, and elucidating mechanisms of action.
Research Area
- Antimicrobial Biomaterials
- Microbiology
- Bacteriophage Therapy
- Biomaterials and Hydrogels
- Molecular Biology
- Synthetic Biology
- Biofilm Research
Location
Empa, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
Eligibility/Qualification
We are looking for a highly motivated and curious candidate with the following profile:
- A Master’s degree in Biomaterials, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.
- Strong interest in antimicrobial resistance, biomaterials, microbiology, or phage therapy.
- Experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Microbiology and bacterial culture
- Biofilm research
- Biomaterials and hydrogels
- Molecular biology or synthetic biology
- Bacteriophages
- Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to an interdisciplinary team.
- Previous experience with phages, hydrogels, wound healing models, or antimicrobial testing is advantageous.
Table
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Research Environment | Highly international and multidisciplinary |
| Infrastructure | Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure |
| Training | Scientific training spanning microbiology, biomaterials engineering, phage biology, and translational biomedical research |
| Collaboration | Close collaboration with leading bacteriophage experts at ETH Zurich and opportunities for interdisciplinary work |
| Work Environment | Stimulating environment within one of Switzerland’s leading research institutions |
| Employment Conditions | Attractive conditions according to Empa regulations |
| Culture | Culture of inclusion and respect, supporting equal opportunities |
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their complete online application exclusively via the Empa job portal. The application must include:
- A letter of motivation
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certificates and Diplomas
- Contact details of two reference persons
Applications submitted by e-mail or post will not be considered.
Last Date for Apply
The position is available from November 2026 or after negotiation with a duration of four years. Please apply as soon as possible.
