AVAILABLE POSITIONS

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. 

 

PhD Student 100% (m/w) – Balgrist University Hospital 

Spinal fusion is a common treatment for degenerative spinal diseases, but it has serious long-term complications like adjacent segment degeneration, screw loosening, pseudarthrosis, and implant failure. Despite these known issues, alternative stabilization techniques have not yet shown broad clinical success. In 2021, we introduced Vertebropexy (VPX), a novel concept using tendon allografts for fusion-free stabilization. VPX aims to selectively stabilize spinal segments and improve joint stability. Biomechanical experiments have shown VPX restores mechanical stability, and early clinical results in 35 patients are promising. However, VPX is contraindicated for foraminal stenosis as it doesn't allow for disc space expansion. This proposal investigates tendon-based nucleus replacement to broaden VPX's applications and develop it as an independent option for nucleus replacement.

 

Within this context, we are looking for an outstanding PhD student to join our team for 4 years. The PhD candidate will conduct research on the development of a tendon-based methodology for disc restoration. This new methodology is intended to serve as an add-on to the vertebropexy technique currently used in clinical settings (tendon-based restoration of the stability of posterior structures), enabling comprehensive treatment of unstable and degenerated spines in the future. The team will consist of two PhD positions working collaboratively - one PhD focusing on biology and the other on biomechanics - to carry out this research. This job description encompasses the biological position. The PhD candidate's activities will be focused on developing and applying in-vitro models such as organ culture models to test the biological functions of the nucleus replacement.

 

Your profile 

MSc degree in Biomedical Sciences or related Life Science areas. 

Experience/Education in a wet laboratory

Excellent communication (English) skills for an effective collaboration with all involved parties

High motivation, strong interest in research, durability 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

Familiarity with a cross-cultural/interdisciplinary environment is an advantage

 

We 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

 

If you meet the requirements of this challenging opportunity, please submit your complete application (motivation letter, CV, recent photograph, certificates, reference letters, etc.). 

 

For further information, please contact Dr. Jonas Widmer, Head of Spine Biomechanics, phone 044 510 73 43, or PD Dr. Stefan Dudli, Head of Spine Biology, phone 044 510 75 11. We look forward to receiving your online application.