Master project bridging the fields of microfluidics, biophysics, and hematology
The Laboratory of Applied Mechanobiology in the Department of Health Sciences and Technology (D-HEST) at the ETH Zurich is a world-wide leading research group to unravel the role of physical forces on cell and extracellular matrix functions, from the level of molecules to tissues. The laboratory is part of the Institute of Translational Medicine (ITM) that provides a home for researchers committed to finding novel technical solutions to solve major clinical and societal challenges.
Project Description:
Within this master project (6-12 months) you will exploit microfluidics, advanced optical microscopy and flow cytometry to assess how different platelet phenotypes interact with blood coagulation factors within the forming blood clot.
Platelets are the key player in organizing this initial clot to stop bleeding after vascular injury. Within seconds, platelets adhere to exposed subendothelial matrix proteins, need to withstand shear forces and form in a complex microenvironment a specific thrombus architecture. Is this system perturbed (e.g an inflamed endothelium in Covid-19 or missing clotting factors in hemophilia A), thrombosis or uncontrolled bleeding can have fatal consequences. Therefore, it is important to better understand how platelets probe its environment in this early blood clot and crosstalk with the coagulation cascade.
We offer: In this project you will learn how to integrate overarching concepts from different disciplines. Working together with multi-disciplinary scientists you will learn how to plan and execute experiments and how to communicate your results. You will gain expertise in advanced high-resolution microscopy and quantitative image analysis combined with micro-engineering tools. Furthermore, you will get familiar with common biochemical, biophysical, and biological assays.
Your profile: You are doing your master studies in biology, biomedical engineering, microsystems engineering, biophysics, or a related field. You are a curious person who likes to question concepts with rigorously planned experiments. You are open to continuously refine and expand your interpersonal and methodical skills by working in an interdisciplinary vibrant team.
If our advertisement sparks your interest and you have first experience working in a lab, you can send your full application (CV, motivation letter, certificates with transcripts) to Dr. Fabrizio Pennacchio: .
Please also contact Dr. Fabrizio Pennacchio, if you have any further questions or visit our website: https://appliedmechanobio.ethz.ch