Doctoral studentships, Molecular Mucosal Immunology Group
The Botnar Institute of Immune Engineering (BIIE) is a new interdisciplinary research
institute dedicated to innovation in immune engineering. Founded in 2024 through a generous endowment from Fondation Botnar, the BIIE supports scientists in taking on
some of the world's most challenging problems in immunology and global health. The
institute unites experts across immunology, biomedicine, bioengineering, and related fields, creating a unique multidisciplinary environment with a mission to make a lasting impact and to train future leaders in immune engineering.
Tasks
We are looking to recruit up to three PhD students for projects focused on developing effective oral vaccines and exploring how the microbiome contributes to protection from infection.
Project 1 is focused on understanding how oral vaccine structure determines delivery of intact antigen to gut-associated lymphoid tissues in the juvenile and adult gut.
Project 2 is focused on elucidating the structures of antibody-glycan complexes via the development of novel native mass spectrometry techniques.
Project 3 is focused on understanding the mechanisms by which urinary and gut commensal microbes contribute to prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections.
As part of our team, you'll receive hands-on supervision and training, along with support for your professional and personal growth. Your responsibilities will include:
- Designing and conducting wet-lab experiments that address specific research questions.
- Analyzing complex data and effectively communicating your findings.
- Participating in strategic planning, collaborating with others, and writing scientific papers.
- Engaging with all aspects of the research group’s work, from reading relevant literature to sharing ideas and participating in group meetings and journal clubs.
The Molecular Mucosal Immunology group is dedicated to fostering creativity in science. We offer a balance of expert mentorship and the freedom to shape and drive your project independently. Our research is aimed at advancing fundamental knowledge of the mucosal immune system and applying this knowledge to achieve real-world clinical impact.
Requirements
Essential:
Bachelors and Masters in biological sciences, biochemistry, biophysics or a related subject.
Aptitude to work in a dynamic and diverse team and enthusiasm to solve complex problems.
Strongly preferred:
Research experience in the areas of microbiology, vaccinology, microbiome sciences, analytical chemistry or mucosal immunology.
Experience working with bacterial glycans, recombinant antibodies and/or bacteriophages.
Ability to programme in R and/or Python.
Further details
We particularly want to hear from applicants who are excited to work in a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative environment, and who have drive to push the boundaries of knowledge. Bold and innovative research ideas will be welcomed.
These positions can start as early as January 2026. Please note that the group will relocate from Zurich to the new BIIE building in Basel in early 2027.
Application deadline: November 7th 2025
