PhD position in Application of Raman spectroscopy for Biomarker Detection in Wounds

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.

The Nanomaterials Spectroscopy and Imaging group at the

Transport at Nanoscale Interfaces Laboratory

 is offering a PhD position focused on demonstrating Raman spectroscopy as a rapid, noninvasive, and label-free omics technology enabling metabolic profiling and biomarker detection in wound exudates. The project will be part of a larger Empa's initiative, called

Wound Booster

 focused on the design of a self-care integrated system to completely understand, simulate and monitor skin wound evolution, with the ultimate aim to treat and prevent chronic wounds.

Your tasks

The student will use Raman spectroscopy to identify a handful of protein and metabolite biomarkers for different phases of wound healing and define when presence of specific proteins/metabolites can indicate initiation of chronic wounds. The project will involve preparation of artificial wound exudates, as well as measurements on wound exudates from patients. The student will combine Raman spectroscopy, along with cutting-edge machine learning approaches and statistical analysis, to enable timely identification of high risk for the chronic wound formation.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic candidate with a strong background in physics, chemistry or related field who wants to pursue cutting-edge research oriented towards direct clinical applications. 

Required qualifications include a Master's degree in physics/chemistry or a related field. Prior experience in statistical analysis and machine learning is essential, while with Raman spectroscopy is advantageous. Excellent English skills, both in verbal and written communication, are required for the project.

Our offer

Our team is located in Dübendorf. The environment at Empa strongly fosters science and entrepreneurship. We offer an outstanding infrastructure, a broad interdisciplinary environment and competitive salaries. The PhD student will be enrolled at University of Basel. The position is available starting February 2025 or upon agreement, with a planned 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.

PatriciaNitzsche, Stv. Leiterin Human Resources / Dep. Head Human Resources