PhD Position in functional antibody repertoire analysis in Zürich

100%, Zurich, temporary

The group for Functional Immunerepertoireanalysis at the Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (IPW) - D-CHAB uses microfluidic technologies to analyse the immune system with single-cell resolution (Eyer et al., Nature Biotechnology, 2017). This approach allows us to characterize the present antibody repertoire with much more detail and resolution; and ask a variety of scientific questions on these data sets. The technology uses droplet microfluidics and involves the temporal-spatial mapping of these microfluidic droplets to study the immune response on a functional level.

Vaccination and immunization are classically analysed by measuring the presence of antibodies in the serum. In the proposed work, we would like to expand the scientific knowledge beyond this work and adapt our technology to measure various antibody functionalities with single-antibody resolution, and characterize the induced immunological response upon vaccination in a murine model system. The generated data sets will be used to better understand the relationship between the immunization and the generation of a protective antibody repertoire, and will be helpful to develop and optimize novel vaccine candidates. The project will employ a broad range of skills in immunology, biochemistry, bio-analytics and microfluidics; is funded by an ERC-Starting Grant and is part of a highly interdisciplinary research team based at the IPW at ETH.

The position will focus on an interdisciplinary research project studying the immunization-generated antibody repertoire on a functional basis; and include a variety of different disciplines along the project.

The successful candidate(s) must have an excellent background, with MSc degree, in immunology, biochemistry, microfluidics, biophysics, or a related field. A working knowledge of animal experimentation and mammalian cell culture is preferred. Moreover, the candidate must be able to fluently communicate in English (oral and written) and be willing to work in a highly interactive, interdisciplinary and international team. Academic excellence, a professional work attitude, and a proactive and self-driven work ethic are expected. The position is fully funded for 4 years and it will be located in the Laboratory for Functional Immunerepertoireanalysis on the campus Hönggerberg of ETH Zurich.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.