PhD Position in Bacteria & Materials Interactions
Develop innovative living hydrogel systems for treating antimicrobial-resistant wound infections.
Best for:Best for candidates with a background in biomaterials or microbiology interested in translational phage therapy.
Overview
The Biointerfaces Laboratory at Empa is seeking a PhD candidate to join an interdisciplinary team focused on antimicrobial biomaterials and bacteriophage therapy. The project involves designing injectable, self-healing hydrogels that deliver probiotics and bacteriophages to treat infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. The successful applicant will work on the synthesis, characterization, and biological evaluation of these therapeutic systems to promote tissue regeneration. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage in translational research with potential clinical applications in wound care.
What you'll do
- Design and synthesize injectable, self-healing hydrogel systems for local drug delivery.
- Develop methods for the encapsulation and controlled release of probiotics and bacteriophages.
- Engineer and characterize phage-based antimicrobial strategies targeting biofilms and pathogenic bacteria.
- Optimize hydrogel properties and evaluate their biological functionality in vitro.
- Assess the therapeutic potential of living therapeutics for tissue regeneration and wound healing.
- Investigate mechanisms of action and the evolution of antimicrobial resistance.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Biomaterials, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken.
Instruction: English
- Strong interest in antimicrobial resistance, biomaterials, microbiology, or phage therapy.
- Experience in microbiology and bacterial culture techniques.
- Experience in biofilm research.
- Experience in biomaterials and hydrogel development.
- Experience in molecular biology or synthetic biology.
- Ability to work independently and contribute to an interdisciplinary team.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Interested candidates must submit their application exclusively through the official Empa job portal. The application should include a letter of motivation, a CV, relevant certificates and diplomas, and the contact details of two references.
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Certificates
- Diplomas
- Contact details of two reference persons
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