PhD Student Infection Biology and Field Assisted Biofabrication (ID 2105)

The AO is a medically guided, not-for-profit organization, a global network of surgeons, and the world's leading education, innovation, and research organization specializing in the surgical treatment of trauma and musculoskeletal disorders. We are home to people from all over the world, from different backgrounds, with diverse talents and specialist areas. What binds us together is our passion for excellence, our dedication to our mission of improving patient care, and our understanding that we are stronger together: we are one AO.
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The contributes high quality applied preclinical research and development within trauma and disorders of the musculoskeletal system and translation of this knowledge, as well as investigates and improves the performance of surgical procedures, devices, and substances to achieve more effective patient care worldwide. It fosters a close relationship with the AO’s medical community, academic societies, and universities and provides a research environment and support for AO clinicians.

Employment type / Anstellungsverhältnis: Temporary Workload percentage / Pensum: 100% Location / Standort:

Davos Platz, CH

Experience level / gewünschtes Erfahrungsniveau: Students / Interns Application language / Bewerbungssprache: English or German

Short Description

Fracture-related infection (FRI) remains one of the most challenging complications in orthopaedic trauma, frequently resulting in bone destruction, implant failure, and prolonged treatment. Recent evidence suggests that early infection-induced bone loss is primarily driven by neutrophil-mediated inflammation and proteolytic degradation, alongside classical osteoclast-driven pathways.

This project (DONUT – Development of advanced Osteolysis Model drive by NeUTrophils) aims to further our knowledge on this topic by developing a novel human-relevant 3D in vitro model that integrates:

• Spatially organized bone constructs generated using Sound-Induced Morphogenesis
• Integration of immune cell populations including neutrophils
• Controlled introduction of Staphylococcus aureus
• Advanced molecular and imaging-based readouts

The project will enable mechanistic insights into infection-induced osteolysis and provide a platform for testing new therapeutic strategies.

Start of work: Position will remain open until role is filled, preferred start by October 2026.

Duration: 4 years

Main Responsibilities

• Develop and optimise 3D biofabricated bone model with immune cells
• Establish infection models with Staphylococcus aureus
• Introduce and study neutrophil-driven inflammatory processes
• Apply advanced analytical techniques (e.g. imaging, transcriptomics, cytokine profiling)
• Analyse and interpret experimental data
• Contribute to scientific publications and presentations

Main Requirements

• Master’s degree in biomedical engineering, biology, microbiology, or a related field
• Experience in cell culture and laboratory techniques (e.g. molecular biology, microscopy, microbiology)
• Experience in neutrophil handling and culture
• Experience in planning and executing research experiments
• Strong interest in infection biology, immunology, and/or biomaterials
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment
• High motivation and enthusiasm for research

Additional desirable skills:

• Experience with 3D cell culture or tissue models
• Knowledge of host–pathogen interactions or infection models
• Familiarity with biofabrication, hydrogels, or biomaterials
• Exposure to advanced imaging or omics approaches

We offer

• An interesting and varied job in an exciting and innovative organization
• The opportunity to be part of a highly committed international team
• Modern infrastructure
• High degree of flexibility regarding working hours and location (depending on operational requirements)
• Generous package of social benefits, including supplementary vacation days and pension scheme contributions
• Internal skills training opportunities and support for continued education