Vacancies

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join an interdisciplinary research project at the interface of biomedical engineering, clinical medicine, and translational auditory neuroscience.

Your research mission
The aim of this project is to advance the understanding of inner ear mechanics during deep cochlear implant electrode insertions, comparing manual and robotic surgical approaches.
The project combines experimental biomechanics, advanced imaging, electrophysiology, and clinical outcome research within a translational framework.

Your tasks will include

• Experimental evaluation of cochlear implant electrode insertions in human ear models
• Clinical studies in cochlear implant recipients, including imaging-based outcome assessment
• Application of state-of-the-art technologies such as cone-beam CT and micro-CT, optical coherence tomography vibrometry, electrophysiological measurements
• Advanced audiological outcome analysis
• Close collaboration with engineers, clinicians, and industry partners

Your profile
You hold (or are about to obtain) a Master's degree in

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medicine / Clinical Sciences
• Biomedical Sciences
• Neuroscience, Medical Technology, or a related discipline

You are

• passionate about translational research and medical innovation
• interested in hearing science and neurotechnology
• motivated to work in an interdisciplinary and international research environment
• eager to combine technical experimentation with clinical impact

We offer

• A highly innovative and clinically relevant PhD project
• Access to unique experimental laboratories and clinical research infrastructure
• Training in cutting-edge imaging, biomechanics, and neuro-engineering methods
• Strong supervision and opportunities for international collaboration and conference participation
• An inspiring academic environment within a leading university hospital setting

Start of employment 01.06.2026 (temporary)
Questions about the job? orl.research@usz.ch
Apply now
 

We are continuously looking for motivated master students interested in conducting an MSc. thesis in middle ear mechanics, bone conduction hearing, or hearing electrophysiology. Feel free to contact us at orl.research@usz.ch to discuss possible projects.

Students that are interested in performing an internship or research project within our group are welcome to contact us at orl.research@usz.ch. A project example is provided below. 

Electrocochleography recordings during cochlear implantation

Electrocochleography is a measurement method that could help preserve residual hearing in cochlear implant (CI) recipients. During this internship, you will investigate the relationship between electrocochleography recordings and hearing loss etiology. You will:

1)    Learn how to perform electrocochleography recordings in CI recipients, and how these measurements relate to pre-operative residual hearing
2)    Assist and perform measurements during and after surgery in cochlear implant recipients
3)    Analyze relationships between electrocochleography recordings, the pre-operative audiogram, and hearing loss etiology

Conditions: Interest in electrophysiology and working with patients, German speaking skills