Job Description

Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.

PhD Position in Bacteria & Materials Interactions

The Biointerfaces Laboratory at Empa in St. Gallen is offering a PhD position in the field of antimicrobial biomaterials, microbiology, and bacteriophage therapy. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary research team developing innovative living hydrogel systems for the treatment of wound infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria and biofilms. This project aims to create a new generation of injectable therapeutic hydrogels that combine beneficial probiotics and bacteriophages to simultaneously eradicate bacterial infections and promote tissue regeneration. With a strong translational focus, the project seeks to advance these living therapeutic systems toward clinically relevant solutions for wound infections and antimicrobial resistance.

Your tasks

You will contribute to the development of injectable, self-healing biomaterial-based hydrogels for the local delivery of probiotics and bacteriophages to wound sites. Your work will involve:

• Design and synthesis of injectable hydrogel systems
• Encapsulation and controlled delivery of probiotics and bacteriophages
• Engineering and characterization of phage-based antimicrobial strategies against pathogenic bacteria and biofilms
• Characterization and optimization of hydrogel properties and biological functionality
• Evaluation of tissue regeneration and the therapeutic potential of living therapeutics
• Elucidation of mechanisms of action and investigation of antimicrobial resistance evolution

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and curious candidate with:

• 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.

Our offer

• A highly international and multidisciplinary research environment
• Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure
• Scientific training spanning microbiology, biomaterials engineering, phage biology, and translational biomedical research
• Close collaboration with leading bacteriophage experts at ETH Zurich and opportunities to work across disciplines
• A stimulating work environment within one of Switzerland's leading research institutions
• Attractive employment conditions according to Empa regulations The position is available from November 2026 or after negotiation with a duration of four years.

We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities - that's what counts.

We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.