PhD Student Disc and Cartilage Biology(m/w/x)

# PhD Student Disc and Cartilage Biology Employment type / Anstellungsverhältnis: Temporary Location / Standort: Davos Platz, CH Workload percentage / Pensum: 100% Experience level / gewünschtes Erfahrungsniveau: Students / Interns Application language / Bewerbungssprache: Englisch oder Deutsch ## Short Description The Regenerative Orthopaedics program is a multidisciplinary team taking a holistic approach to regenerative medicine for the repair of musculoskeletal traumatic injuries and degeneration. Within the Disc and Cartilage Biology Focus Area of the Regenerative Orthopaedics Program, we are looking for a qualified PhD candidate. The early-stage researcher will be a member of the Disc and Cartilage Biology Focus Area within the Regenerative Orthopaedics Program, with excellent facilities and experienced translational research teams. In addition, the doctoral student will join a PhD Programme within the D-HEST of ETH Zürich. ETH Zürich offers access to a variety of post-graduate training from introductory courses to academic transferable skills. The successful candidate will be offered a full-time PhD position at the ARI for four years. ## Main Responsibilities The main objective of this position is to investigate the effect of multiaxial mechanical loading on the integrity of the intervertebral disc. In vitro organ culture models will be used to study the homeostasis of the intervertebral disc under simulated physiological or induced degenerative conditions. Custom designed multiaxial bioreactor systems will be utilized to apply defined regimes of mechanical rotations and translations in six degrees of freedom. The aim is to improve our knowledge of the molecular and structural responses of the intervertebral disc to complex loading. Towards this aim, spatial and temporal alterations of the disc biology and mechanics are investigated. ## Main Requirements * MSc in biology, biomedical engineering or related field. * An ideal candidate will have excellent marks from previous studies and courses along with experience in the field of cell biology, biochemistry, health sciences or bioengineering. * Practical experience in cell/tissue culture methodology is required. * Experience in biochemical analysis and knowledge of biomechanical evaluation techniques are also desired. * The candidate must be enthusiastic and excited about the field of mechanobiology, with excellent written and oral communication skills. **We offer** * An interesting and varied job in an exciting and innovative organization * The opportunity to be part of a highly committed international team * Modern infrastructure * High degree of flexibility regarding working hours and location (depending on operational requirements) * Generous package of social benefits, including supplementary vacation days and pension scheme contributions * Internal skills training opportunities and support for continued education Datum der Publikation: 29.04.2025