Postdoctoral Researcher In Bone Organoids

The Singapore‑ETH Centre, established in 2010 by ETH Zurich and Singapore’s National Research Foundation (NRF) as part of the NRF’s CREATE campus, serves as ETH Zurich’s only research centre outside Switzerland. Located in Singapore, the centre bridges European and Asian expertise to address global challenges in urban sustainability, resilience and health. Its Future Health Technologies (FHT) programme focuses on translational biomedical research, including the development of advanced in vitro models for disease modelling and drug screening. This postdoctoral position is situated within the Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics at ETH Zurich, where a dynamic bone organoid culture platform has been pioneered. The project aims to extend this platform to patient‑derived 3D bone organoids for personalized osteoporosis research.

The successful candidate will lead the optimisation of workflows to 3D‑print patient‑derived mesenchymal stromal cells, guide their osteogenic differentiation under dynamic mechanical stimulation, and co‑culture the constructs with peripheral blood mononuclear cells to model immune‑bone interactions. They will design and implement organoid‑based drug‑response assays to assess donor‑specific reactions to osteoporosis‑relevant pharmacological interventions. Characterisation will employ molecular, biochemical, histological, imaging and microscopy‑based techniques, including immunostaining, confocal microscopy, gene expression analysis, cytokine profiling, mineralisation assays and osteoclast activity assays. The researcher will generate quality‑controlled biological datasets for integration with computational modelling and clinical data, coordinate wet‑lab workflows, contribute to project deliverables, and mentor junior researchers where appropriate.

Applicants must hold a PhD degree in biomedical engineering or a closely related discipline. Essential prior experience includes tissue engineering, mammalian cell culture, and the development of advanced in vitro models. Hands‑on expertise with 3D cell culture, organoid systems, bone or musculoskeletal research, bioreactor‑based culture, and mechanical stimulation of tissues is highly advantageous. Familiarity with human primary cells, mesenchymal stromal cells, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, osteoclast differentiation, immune cell assays and inflammatory signalling pathways will be considered a strong benefit. Experience in organoid‑based drug screening, pharmacological response assays, disease modelling, and proficiency with molecular, histological, imaging and biochemical techniques (e.g., immunostaining, microscopy, gene expression, cytokine profiling, mineralisation, osteoclast assays) is desired. Additional assets comprise experience with computed tomography, image analysis, Python‑based or quantitative data analysis.

ETH Zurich offers a supportive and inclusive workplace, accredited with the Tripartite Alliance for Fair & Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP) and the NS mark. The position comes with 25 days of annual leave for fixed‑term contracts, one day of birthday leave, annual dental benefits, and comprehensive healthcare insurance. A flexible hybrid work arrangement permits up to two days per week of remote work. The international team comprises researchers from 32 nationalities, fostering cross‑cultural exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration. Networking opportunities span engineering, biology, clinical sciences and industry, providing a rich environment for professional growth and the translation of research into real‑world solutions.

Applications must be submitted exclusively through the online portal accessible via the link provided in the advertisement; emailed or postal applications will not be considered. Required documents include a cover letter outlining motivation for the project, a curriculum vitae with the names and contact details of two referees, and PDF copies of university transcripts. Inquiries about the position should be directed to Dr. Chris Steffi (ETH Zurich) at [email protected]