Postdoc position in Development of in vitro skin model sensory perception

Organisation/Company ETH Zürich Research Field Biological sciences » Other Engineering » Biomedical engineering Engineering » Other Technology » Biotechnology Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Country Switzerland Final date to receive applications 18 Mar 2026 - 22:59 (UTC) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Postdoc position in Development of in vitro skin model including sensory perception

For a collaboration project between the Bio Engineering Laboratory (Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering of ETH Zurich in Basel) and Novartis AG, Basel, Switzerland, we are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic Postdoc. You will have a unique opportunity to collaborate across scientific and organizational boundaries with a focus on developing powerful advanced skin models to study barrier function and itching that have the potential of therapeutic breakthroughs for patients.

Project background

Leveraging cutting-edge advanced cellular models, and bioengineering and microfluidic approaches, the project is aimed at developing skin models that include sensory perception for understanding immunological skin diseases and for applications in drug discovery. Current ex vivo skin models, although widely used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic research, fall short of assessing - in real-time - itch-inducing and barrier-compromising conditions. Emerging models, based on primary keratinocytes and induced-pluripotent-stem-cell (iPSC), can better replicate physiological and disease conditions.

However, such models need to be adapted for pharmaceutical research and target identification.

• In this collaborative effort, you will devise an in vitro 3D human skin model to investigate barrier function under homeostatic conditions and in response to inflammatory stimuli
• By combining state-of-the‑art engineering and microfluidic approaches with new cellular models, you will develop new skin models that include sensory perception and will find applications in fundamental science and drug testing
• You will have a dual role in setting up and culturing the 3D skin models and optimizing sensor technology (e.g. TEER and TEWL) to enable a robust assessment of skin barrier functionality
• In addition, itch perception will be studied by the integration of iPSC‑derived sensory neurons

Profile

• Considering the dual aspects of this position, we are looking for a candidate with a strong background in biology and engineering (e.g., bioengineering, biotechnology, or related fields) with a solid knowledge of molecular biology and cell culturing, preferably in microphysiological systems
• Important experience includes primary cell culturing, work with advanced in vitro models, epithelial/endothelial barrier characterization, and iPSC differentiation; skills in optical microscopy, sensor development and integration, as well as in electrophysiology are a plus
• Academic excellence, a professional attitude, and a self‑driven nature are expected
• Strong communication skills, fluency in English, and a proactive mindset are essential for thriving in this collaborative, international environment

The position is fully funded for initially 2 years, an extension to up to 4 years is possible. The starting date is flexible but must be before 06-2026.

We offer

• Your job with impact:
  Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society

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