The Spine Biomechanics Lab at Balgrist University Hospital is a translational research environment at the interface of engineering and spine surgery. We combine experimental and computational methods to generate quantitative evidence and translate it directly into surgical techniques, implant design, and treatment concepts.

We are now looking for a hands-on Research Engineer / Scientist (Biomechanics & Biomaterials) to drive the development of a minimally invasive, bioactive tension-band implant that stabilizes the degenerative lumbar spine while preserving natural motion. The position is time-limited for 20 months, with the possibility to transition to an unlimited contract thereafter.

Research Engineer / Scientist (Biomechanics & Biomaterials) (w/m/d) 80–100 %
Research

Your tasks

• Conduct experimental biomechanics for a new motion-preserving spinal stabilization implant.
• Support the development of and evaluate implant components and related instruments together with consortium partners.
• Run bio-integration experiments to inform design decisions.
• Plan and document verification & validation according to ISO/GLP expectations; contribute to preclinical / animal study preparation.
• Collaborate closely with surgeons, engineers, and industry partners to translate prototypes into a standardized, easy-to-deploy procedure kit.
• Communicate results (SOPs, test reports, manuscripts, conference abstracts) and support project management deliverables.

Your profile

• MSc/PhD (or equivalent experience) in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials/Biomaterials, Health Sciences or a related field.
• Experience in experimental biomechanics and/or biomaterials testing.
• Experience with textile structures, collagen matrices, orthopedic implants, cadaveric testing, or GLP/ISO 10993/13485 interfaces is an advantage.
• Comfortable in a build-test-iterate environment; proactive, creative, and solution-oriented.
• Clear technical writing and confident cross-disciplinary collaboration (clinicians, engineers, industry).
• Experience in MedTech R&D or a related field is preferred.

Our offer

• A dynamic, interdisciplinary research setting embedded in a world-leading orthopedic hospital, direct access to surgeons, wet lab infrastructure, and state-of-the-art spine testing infrastructure.
• Close collaboration with our project industry partners specializing in innovative spine implants and collagen-based biomaterials, including joint prototyping and validation activities.
• Opportunity to shape a first-in-class, motion-preserving alternative to spinal fusion from prototype toward clinical readiness.
• A fixed-term contract of 20 months with the possibility to continue on an unlimited contract thereafter.

Next steps

For further information please contact Dr. Tobias Götschi, Project Manager, E-Mail: tobias.goetschi@balgrist.ch.

We look forward to your complete online application (CV, cover letter, transcripts, references, and – if available – key publications/portfolio).