PhD - Lab on Chip Sample Preparation for Next-Generation Molecular Diagnostics

Your tasks

Join our innovative research team. We are looking for a motivated PhD candidate to develop a microfluidic sample-preparation unit operation, based on magnetic beads, enabling next-generation molecular diagnostics (MDx) workflows. Next-generation molecular diagnostics require robust and automated methods for isolating low-abundance biological targets - such as pathogens, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and extracellular vesicles (EVs)-from complex samples. This PhD project aims to develop a scalable, cartridge-compatible platform for the controlled handling of functionalized magnetic particles throughout the complete sample-preparation workflow, including target capture, washing, transfer, resuspension, and release. The central objective is to establish a reusable microfluidic actuation module that interfaces seamlessly with disposable diagnostic cartridges.

• You will conduct targeted literature research on the manipulation of magnetic particles and develop multiphysics models (e.g., COMSOL) to optimize particle trajectories and fluid interactions.
• Furthermore, you will conceptually design and develop a reusable, cartridge-compatible microfluidic handling module that automates the entire target-molecule extraction process (capture, washing, transfer, and release).
• You will create functional prototypes and experimentally quantify system performance using key metrics such as target-molecule recovery, processing time, and reproducibility.
• Last but not least, you will translate your physical understanding and modeling results into rigorous design rules for integration into disposable diagnostics cartridges, delivering transferable models and prototypes for future product development.

Your profile

• Education: excellent master's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, Microsystems Engineering (MEMS), or a related field
• Experience and Knowledge: solid knowledge of microfluidics, fluid dynamics, and multiphysics simulation (e.g., COMSOL); practical experience in the design, prototyping, and testing of lab-on-a-chip systems; ideally, familiarity with handling magnetic particles, non-Newtonian fluids (such as blood), or sample preparation for molecular diagnostics (MDx)
• Personality and Working Practice: you work independently, plan your tasks carefully, and contribute with a high level of commitment and a strong hands-on mentality; you are able to communicate your research findings clearly and bridge the gap between theoretical simulation and physical prototyping, taking ownership of your work
• Enthusiasm: you are passionate about interdisciplinary scientific work at the intersection of physics, engineering, and biomedicine, approach complex tasks creatively and innovatively, and successfully translate them into practical applications
• Languages: very good written and spoken German and English