Postdoctoral Scientist in In Vitro Diagnostic Image Capture and Analysis in Zürich

100%, Zurich, temporary

The deMello Group (Prof. Dr. Andrew deMello) in the Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering at ETH Zürich is searching for a postdoctoral researcher to work on image capture and analysis of colorimetric in vitro diagnostic (IVD) devices. The aim is to develop software and an associated smartphone app that is able to yield a reliable and robust quantitation of the target analyte, based on data extracted from captured images. We invite candidates with research interests in software development and image analysis, with a passion for improving global health through new technologies. The position is fixed-term at 12 months in the first instance, with a possibility for extension.

The availability of rapid IVD devices is critical for the control of infectious diseases. For example, the unavailability of widespread and rapid IVDs during the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 led to a severe lack of high-quality data in the early stages of that outbreak, which hindered critical time-sensitive interventions (e.g. test, trace, isolate). This rendered health agencies and governments powerless to stop COVID-19 becoming a global pandemic with terrible social and economic cost. In the deMello group, we have an established research activity on the development of colorimetric microfluidics-based IVD technologies targeting infectious disease. A key part of this work is in the development of the device–digital interface, where the output of an IVD is read and analyzed by a portable device (e.g. smartphone). To support our work in this area, we seek a new team member who possess the relevant expertise and drive to make an impact in the diagnostics and global health fields.

As a member of the deMello Group, you will work on the quantification of colorimetric data from microfluidics-based IVD devices, and on broader challenges in IVD development in the group. This represents an exciting opportunity to work at the interface of bioengineering and computer science, and the candidate will work in a diverse and dynamic group with an established interdisciplinary culture.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop software that automates image capture, processing and data extraction from colorimetric IVDs
• Integrate the software into an app with a user-friendly graphical user interface
• Expertise in coding (essential)
• Experience in software development (preferable)
• Experience in IVD device development (preferable)
• Experience in microfluidics engineering and imaging (preferable)
• Work closely with our academic and industrial project partners to ensure the work progresses in line with the larger project objectives
• Contribute to project management, including financial and time management
• Present at internal project meetings and at international conferences
• Write peer-reviewed publications

We would like to hear from computer scientists and/or imaging experts who are keen to gain expertise in bioengineering, IVDs and global health, and conversely from researchers who have experience in IVDs who are keen to move towards mHealth and computer science. Coding skills are essential. Previous experience writing code to automate high-throughput image capture and analysis, and in app development, are beneficial.

Candidates are expected to have obtained a PhD degree in a relevant science or engineering discipline. However, candidates will be judged on their overall experience, expertise and ambitions, rather than on their specific research discipline(s). Successful candidates will be part of an international research team and are expected to be highly motivated and passionate about science, engineering and global health.

You bring to the role:

• The ability to work well in a highly international, collaborative environment
• Ability to maintain focus on project objectives and deliverables
• Drive to take your research to an advanced technology readiness level
• Ability to work effectively with a range of collaborators
• Ability to write and communicate effectively and at a high level

We offer:

• A multicultural and multidisciplinary research environment
• Attractive hiring conditions
• Access to state of the art equipment and resources
• Strong support in career progression

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.