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AO Foundation

PhD Student, Infection Biology and Biomedical Materials

AO Foundation

PhD Student focusing on Infection Biology and Biomedical Materials at AO Research Institute Davos. Engaging in interdisciplinary research to improve surgical treatment outcomes.

Posted 7/10/2026full-timeDavos • 🇨🇭 SwitzerlandEntry LevelWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact
  • Establish and optimize advanced 3D in vitro infection models (e.g., staphylococcal abscess communities)
  • Investigate early events in infection establishment, including bacterial aggregation, fibrin encapsulation, and antibiotic tolerance
  • Characterize neutrophil–bacteria interactions, including phagocytosis, ROS production, and bacterial killing
  • Identify and evaluate immunomodulatory compounds that enhance neutrophil function
  • Perform cell culture and co-culture experiments using primary human neutrophils and bacterial pathogens
  • Apply advanced techniques including confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, and molecular assays
  • Analyze and interpret complex experimental datasets
  • Contribute to interdisciplinary collaboration with biomaterials researchers within the PREPARE project

Requirements

What you’ll need
  • Master’s degree in microbiology, infection biology, immunology, or a related life science discipline
  • Practical experience in microbiology and/or host–pathogen interaction studies
  • Experience with cell culture and immunological assays (e.g., flow cytometry, microscopy)
  • Strong interest in infection biology, innate immunity, and translational research
  • Ability to design, plan, and execute experimental studies independently
  • Excellent communication skills in English
  • Motivation to work in a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative environment
  • Additional desirable skills: Experience working with primary immune cells (especially neutrophils)
  • Familiarity with 3D cell culture or infection models
  • Knowledge of bacterial physiology, antibiotic tolerance, or biofilms
  • Experience with advanced imaging or transcriptomic approaches
  • Interest in translational research and biomaterials-based therapeutic strategies

Benefits

Comp & perks
  • An interesting and varied role within an innovative organization
  • Opportunity to be part of a highly committed international team
  • Modern infrastructure and laboratory facilities
  • High degree of flexibility regarding working hours and location (depending on operational requirements)
  • Generous social benefits package, including additional vacation days and pension contributions
  • Internal skills training opportunities and support for continued education

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools
MicrobiologyInfection BiologyImmunologyCell CultureImmunological AssaysExperimental DesignData AnalysisPhagocytosisAntibiotic Tolerance3D Cell Culture
Soft Skills
Excellent Communication SkillsMotivation To Collaborate