Balgrist University Hospital is one of the most renowned orthopedic clinics in Switzerland with international recognition and an affiliated center for paraplegia as well as for rehabilitation. Balgrist University Hospital offers one of the most modern and attractive research centers in Switzerland, where researchers from the University and ETH Zurich, physicians, developers, and industry work together to alleviate the problems of patients with musculoskeletal disorders. The Balgrist SPINE BIOMECHANICS group conducts research in the fields of biomechanics and computer-aided orthopedics and develops innovative solutions for improved surgical treatment.

Within the hospital, the Balgrist SPINE BIOMECHANICS group focuses on biomechanics and computer-aided orthopedics, developing innovative solutions for advanced surgical treatments. As part of this effort, we are seeking a motivated PhD student for a 4-year position to contribute to the development of a tendon-based nucleus replacement methodology. This project builds on the Vertebropexy (VPX) technique, a novel approach for fusion-free spinal stabilization, aiming to expand its clinical applications and improve treatment for unstable and degenerated spines.

PhD Student Biomedical Engineering 100 % (w/m/d) - Balgrist University Hospital
Research

Your tasks

• Develop surgical procedures for tendon-based nucleus replacement
• Design and conduct biomechanical experiments to test the methodology
• Prototype and refine surgical tools for nucleus replacement
• Collaborate within an interdisciplinary team to advance VPX as a comprehensive treatment for unstable and degenerated spines

Your profile

• MSc degree in biomedical engineering, mechanical or civil engineering, technical physics, material sciences or related disciplines
• Previous experience with mechanical testing would be an advantage
• Experience with CAD software desirable (e.g., SolidWorks).
• Excellent communication (English) skills for an effective collaboration with all involved parties
• High motivation, strong interest in research, creativity, and resilience to cope with challenges
• Ability to solve complex tasks in a highly independent manner
• Eligibility to apply and obtain a Visa for temporary residence is Switzerland

Our offer

• An interesting and varied job in exciting and innovative organizations
• Working in a highly committed interdisciplinary team
• Modern infrastructure
• Employment conditions which match the requirements and offer a high degree of flexibility re working hours and location

Further benefits are just a click away: Attractive offer for our employees

Next steps

If you meet the requirements of this challenging opportunity, please submit your complete online application (motivation letter, CV, recent photograph, certificates, reference letters, etc.) through our online application system. Applications received via other channels will not be considered in the process.

The PhD will be formally supervised by ETH Zurich and conducted in accordance with its norms and standards. The official supervisor will be Prof. Snedeker. For further information, please contact PD. Dr. Jonas Widmer, Head of Spine Biomechanics (jonas.widmer@balgrist.ch).

We look forward to receiving your online application.