Empa is the research institute for materials science and technology of the ETH Domain and conducts cutting-edge research for the benefit of industry and the well-being of society.
The Laboratory for Biointerfaces performs material-related research and focuses on understanding, characterizing and steering interactions of biomolecules, bacteria and human cells at surfaces for materials-based healthcare solutions.
The Laboratory for Biointerfaces offers
In this project, we will investigate the efficacy and applicability of probiotics to treat biofilm-associated wound infections. The goal isto identify probiotics with antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties that can not only eradicate recalcitrant pathogenic biofilms inside the wound, but also promote wound healing. Pathogenic biofilm will be formed in vitro and ex vivo. Compounds secreted by different probiotics will be isolated and analyzed for their antibiofilm mode of action. The impact of probiotics on the inflammatory response and wound healing will also be analyzed. The identified compounds/probiotics will be formulated for better stability and bioactivity.
Two PhD candidates will be employed for this project. One will be responsible for probiotic selection, isolation of the secreted compounds, the study of their antimicrobial/antibiofilm mechanistic and encapsulation, thus, shall have a strong background in biochemistry and materials science. Good knowledge in general biochemistry techniques, especially in GC, HPLC and protein purification,is of advantage. Another will be in charge of characterizing the effect of probiotics on the biofilm and the wound healing, thus shall have a strong background in cell biology with knowhow in bacteriology. Good knowledge in general cell biology techniques, e.g in qRT-PCR and ELISA,is of advantage.
The candidates are expected to hold a Master degree or equivalent in biochemistry, cell biology, materials science, microbiology, molecular biology, or related disciplines. Candidates with strong interest in material-related research are greatly encouraged to apply.The applicant must be highly motivatedwith eager-to-learn spirit and problem solving skills. Proficiency in spoken and written English is mandatory. Knowledge of German is advantageous.
We offer a highly stimulating research environment with well-equipped infrastructure as well as an excellent network of scientific, clinical and industrial partners. The candidates will work in a multidisciplinary field that combines microbiology, cell biology, biochemistry and material science. Thanks to our close collaborations with clinicians, there will also be opportunity to conduct translational research.