Project background
The availability of rapid IVD devices is critical for the control of infectious diseases. For example, the unavailability of widespread and rapid IVDs during the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 led to a severe lack of high-quality data in the early stages of that outbreak, which hindered critical time-sensitive interventions (e.g. test, trace, isolate). This rendered health agencies and governments powerless to stop COVID-19 becoming a global pandemic with a terrible social and economic cost. In the deMello group, we have an established research activity on the development of colorimetric microfluidics-based IVD technologies targeting the infectious disease. A key part of this work is in the development of the device–digital interface, where the output of an IVD is read and analyzed by a portable device (e.g. smartphone). To support our work in this area, we seek a new team member who possesses the relevant expertise and drives to make an impact in the diagnostics and global health fields.
Job description
As a member of the deMello Group, you will work on the quantification of colorimetric data from microfluidics-based IVD devices, and on broader challenges in IVD development in the group. This represents an exciting opportunity to work at the interface of bioengineering and computer science, and the candidate will work in a diverse and dynamic group with an established interdisciplinary culture.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Develop software that automates image capture, processing and data extraction from colorimetric IVDs
Integrate the software into an app with a user-friendly graphical user interface
Expertise in coding (essential)
Experience in software development (preferable)
Experience in IVD device development (preferable)
Experience in microfluidics engineering and imaging (preferable)
Work closely with our academic and industrial project partners to ensure the work progresses in line with the larger project objectives
Contribute to project management, including financial and time management
Present at internal project meetings and at international conferences
Write peer-reviewed publications
Your profile
We would like to hear from computer scientists and/or imaging experts who are keen to gain expertise in bioengineering, IVDs and global health, and conversely from researchers who have experience in IVDs who are keen to move towards mHealth and computer science. Coding skills are essential. Previous experience writing code to automate high-throughput image capture and analysis, and in-app development, are beneficial.
Candidates are expected to have obtained a PhD degree in a relevant science or engineering discipline. However, candidates will be judged on their overall experience, expertise and ambitions, rather than on their specific research discipline(s). Successful candidates will be part of an international research team and are expected to be highly motivated and passionate about science, engineering and global health.
You bring to the role:
The ability to work well in a highly international, collaborative environment
Ability to maintain focus on project objectives and deliverables
Drive to take your research to an advanced technology readiness level
Ability to work effectively with a range of collaborators
Ability to write and communicate effectively and at a high level
We offer:
A multicultural and multidisciplinary research environment
Attractive hiring conditions
Access to state of the art equipment and resources
Strong support in career progression
Interested?
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:
A cover letter detailing your motivation for applying, and how you meet the position requirements
A detailed CV including publication list and details of at least two references
Applications will be assessed continually, and a shortlist for an interview will be drawn up on December 1st. Interviews will be held online in mid-December. We anticipate the chosen candidate starting the project in the first quarter of 2021. Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
Questions regarding the position are welcome, and should be directed to Dr Daniel Richards, daniel.richards@chem.ethz.ch (no applications).