Postdoc position in Airborne Pathogen and Bioaerosol Detection Instrumentation

Duration: 1.5 years | Starting date: 01.03 2026

The Atmospheric Science Group of Prof. Dr. Markus Kalberer at the Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Switzerland, invites applications for a postdoctoral position to develop a novel instrument for near real-time detection of airborne pathogens. The position is part of a collaborative and interdisciplinary project involving the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) and the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW).

Project description

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for fast and reliable methods to detect airborne pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and fungal spores. Current approaches are slow and labor-intensive, often relying on culture-based analysis that requires several days. This project aims to further design, build and validate a compact, automated instrument capable of quantifying specific pathogens in air in near real-time. Biological particles will be collected from a continuous air flow, selectively captured using antigen-specific monoclonal antibodies, and detected and quantified via flow cytometry.
The postdoctoral researcher will work closely with an ongoing PhD project at the University of Basel and collaborate with partners at Swiss TPH and FHNW, combining expertise in aerosol collection, immunological detection, and engineering.

Your position

The successful candidate will:

• Lead the optimization, and testing of the bioaerosol detection instrument, with a focus on influenza viruses.
• Integrate modules for bioaerosol collection, biological detection, and flow cytometry measurement.
• Conduct laboratory and field experiments, analyze data, and evaluate performance.
• Collaborate closely with project partners and contribute to scientific publications and presentations.

Your profile

Applicants should hold a PhD in biology, atmospheric science, engineering, physics, analytical chemistry, or a related discipline. We seek a highly motivated and solution-oriented candidate with:

•  Proven experience in experimental research and instrument design/prototyping.
•  Knowledge of microfluidic device design highly desirable.
•  Knowledge of aerosol sampling, particle characterization, or biosensing methods advantageous.
• Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to plan and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• A willingness to learn new methods and approaches from related fields.
• Strong teamworking, communication, and interpersonal skills and an openness to interdisciplinary collaboration. 
•  Excellent communication and teamwork skills in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Fluent English (spoken and written); knowledge of German is an advantage.

We offer you

A 1.5-year fully funded postdoctoral position in a dynamic and international research group within the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel. You will have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and close collaboration with leading Swiss research institutions. The University of Basel offers an inclusive and supportive working environment, internationally competitive employment conditions, and attractive benefits. Basel is an international city at the border of Switzerland, France, and Germany, known for its high quality of life.

• A motivation letter (max. 1 page) describing your research interests and fit for the position.
• A detailed CV including a list of publications.
•  A copy of your PhD diploma.
• Contact details of two academic references.