Job Description

The AO is a medically guided, not-for-profit organization, a global network of surgeons, and the world's leading education, innovation, and research organization specializing in the surgical treatment of trauma and musculoskeletal disorders. We are home to people from all over the world, from different backgrounds, with diverse talents and specialist areas. What binds us together is our passion for excellence, our dedication to our mission of improving patient care, and our understanding that we are stronger together: we are one AO.



The AO Research Institute Davos (ARI) contributes high quality applied preclinical research and development within trauma and disorders of the musculoskeletal system and translation of this knowledge, as well as investigates and improves the performance of surgical procedures, devices, and substances to achieve more effective patient care worldwide. It fosters a close relationship with the AO's medical community, academic societies, and universities and provides a research environment and support for AO clinicians.

Employment type / Anstellungsverhaltnis:

Temporary

Workload percentage / Pensum:

100%

Location / Standort:

Davos Platz, CH

Experience level / gewunschtes Erfahrungsniveau:

Students / Interns

Application language / Bewerbungssprache:

English

Short Description

The AO Research Institute (ARI) Davos is looking for a PostDoc to investigate the interaction between immune cells and biomaterials, with the ultimate goal of establishing design principles for biomaterials controlling inflammation for improved bone healing. Previous experience in cell culture, biochemistry assays, proteomics; confocal microscopy; handling of immune cells will be valued; 3D (bio)printing, and chemical modification of biopolymers, is a plus. Strong motivation is essential.



ARI's Biomedical Materials Focus Area is committed to designing advanced biomaterials and the development of manufacturing technologies for improved musculoskeletal disorders therapies. We offer training at the forefront of biomaterials research in the context of a world-renewed musculoskeletal research institute; a challenging and rewarding research and educational program within a unique global organization based in Davos that offers urban flair in a pristine natural environment; a wide international network with the best scientists in the field, support searching for accommodation; networking opportunities to prepare the candidate for the next step in her/his career.

Main Responsibilities

Topic: Interaction between immune cells and biomaterials

The successful candidate will be studying how neutrophils and macrophages interact with biomaterials, determining the interplay between chemical composition, bulk and local mechanical properties and surface topography on inflammation. This knowledge will be then harnessed with advanced biofabrication techniques to create biomaterials constructs controlling inflammation with the ultimate goal of improving regeneration of musculoskeletal tissues after trauma and disease. This project is closely connected with numerous other projects within ARI.

Main Requirements

Strong motivation and interest in the research topic PhD degree in Biology, Immunology, Biomedical Engineering, Health Sciences and Technology, or similar disciplines Excellent laboratory skills in cell culture, biochemistry assays, proteomics; confocal microscopy. Previous experience with laboratory handling of immune cells, 3D (bio)printing, chemical modification of biopolymers, is a plus Accurate and reliable with a high work ethic standards Familiarity with a cross-cultural/interdisciplinary environment is an advantage. Fluency in English Eligibility to apply and obtain a Visa for temporary residence is Switzerland is essential The preferred starting date is the last quarter of 2025. Duration: 2 years

We offer

An interesting and varied job in an exciting and innovative organization The opportunity to be part of a highly committed international team Modern infrastructure High degree of flexibility regarding working hours and location (depending on operational requirements) Generous package of social benefits, including supplementary vacation days and pension scheme contributions Internal skills training opportunities and support for continued education

If you meet the requirements of this challenging opportunity, please submit your application (motivation letter, CV, certificates, reference letters, etc)

Date of publication:

Oct 2, 2025