Postdoc position in developing micro- and nanoscale systems for protease detection in Zürich

100%, Zurich, temporary

The Responsive Biomedical Systems Lab The RBSL researches micro and nanoscale systems designed for minimally invasive actuation or readout in applications including diagnostics, drug delivery, and therapy. We have the following opening for a postdoctoral research position under the supervision of Prof. Simone Schürle-Finke.

Proteases are an exceptionally important and informative class of enzymes, making up 10% of all current drug targets and offering potentially useful diagnostic information. Developing robust methods for site selective detection of protease activity has the potential to advance understanding of fundamental disease mechanisms, aid in developing targeted therapies, and inform treatment. Previously, we demonstrated a method for site selective activation of probes with a urinary readout:

We are continuing to develop new methods to reveal protease activity at sites of disease that enable actuation or readout via minimally invasive stimuli such as magnetic fields or ultrasound. Our efforts focus on micro- and nanoscale architectures that incorporate substrates that are cleaved preferentially by particular proteases. We are seeking a postdoc to expand and accelerate our efforts in this area while working alongside a PhD student and another postdoc.

 

A strong candidate should have PhD training in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, or related fields, ideally having prior experience with peptides. Experience in vivo with rodent models is favorable. 

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.