PhD - Development of a Novel Lab-on-a-Chip Component for the Analysis and Sorting of Single Cells

About this role

As part of our research team, you will work on cutting-edge solutions for the life sciences. We are offering a PhD position to develop a novel dielectrophoresis (DEP) chip for the analysis and sorting of single cells. Multi-omics analyses at the single-cell level offer crucial diagnostic insights into diseases. However, current automation technologies are often inefficient and expensive. Your project will focus on overcoming these limitations by developing an image-based DEP chip to automate the compartmentation, sample preparation, analysis, and sorting of single cells.

This technology aims to enable high-throughput, gentle multi-omics analyses for universal sample types. You will develop and evaluate innovative concepts for semiconductor-based dielectrophoresis (DEP) chips, determining robust electrical, microfluidic, and thermal operating parameters. Furthermore, you will investigate the physical limits of chip miniaturization and explore feasible manufacturing routes compatible with Bosch’s CMOS technology.

You will design and fabricate a functional demonstrator using semiconductor manufacturing processes and integrate it into a microfluidic system. Last but not least, you will characterize the prototype and perform a proof of concept for all operating modes using a representative bioassay with living cells in physiological media. Education: excellent Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Microsystems Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Physics, or a comparable field Experience and Knowledge: detailed knowledge of classical MEMS, microfluidics, and biomedical engineering; expertise in microfluidic and electrical design for lab-on-chip systems; experience in modeling of physical cell interactions at the microscale; knowledge of (optical) signal processing; experience with cleanroom processes and knowledge of oncology are advantageous Personality and Working Practice: you actively contribute your ideas and communicate your research results clearly and convincingly; your curiosity motivates you to explore new approaches, and you enjoy taking a hands-on role; you work in a structured manner to achieve your goals, develop creative solutions to complex challenges, and independently conduct experiments Languages: very good written and spoken German and English https://www.bosch-ai.com www.bosch.com/research The final topic depends on your university.