A fully funded PhD opportunity is open at the ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, within the ThromboRisk project (Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network). This position focuses on modeling and optimizing drug delivery for thrombolysis in pulmonary embolism through advanced computational and experimental methods.
Important Information
| Title | PhD Position – Thrombolysis in Pulmonary Embolism (DC18) |
|---|---|
| Organization/Publisher | University of Bern |
| Work Location | Bern, Switzerland |
| Research Field | Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computational Science |
| Funding Info | Fully Funded (Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network) |
| Application Deadline | Until position filled |
| Posted Date | November 2025 |
| Country | Switzerland |
| Researcher Profile | PhD Researcher |
| Apply Button | Send documents to info.artorg@unibe.ch |
| Required Qualification | MSc in Mechanical, Biomedical Engineering, or Computational Science |
| Required Experience | Fluid mechanics, computational modeling, programming |
| Salary Details | Approx. CHF 6,144/month + allowances (MSCA guidelines) |
Position Description
The ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research at the University of Bern invites applications for a PhD position in Thrombolysis in Pulmonary Embolism (DC18) under the ThromboRisk project, a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network funded by the European Union.
The appointment begins on February 1, 2026, with a duration of 48 months. The program includes a 6-month training with CorFlow Therapeutics AG (Switzerland) and two 3-month secondments at University College London (UCL) and the University of Leeds (UK).
Research Focus
The aim of this PhD project is to explore catheter-based drug delivery systems for thrombolysis in pulmonary embolism. The candidate will develop a computational model of the pulmonary circulation, integrating thromboembolism transport, drug delivery, and lysis processes.
Key research questions include:
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What mechanisms drive embolization in the lungs?
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How can we predict thrombus localization?
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What infusion protocols ensure efficient drug delivery?
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How does the drug penetrate microthrombi?
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What occurs during lysis and post-lysis debris movement?
This research will contribute to a deeper understanding of drug dynamics, embolization mechanics, and thrombolytic efficiency.
Research Programme: ThromboRisk – European Doctoral Network
The ThromboRisk consortium comprises ten universities across Europe, including the University of Bern, Eindhoven University of Technology, University of Maastricht, University College London, and others.
The program’s mission is to develop multi-level thrombosis risk prediction models by combining mechanobiology, pathophysiology, biochemistry, and computational modeling. Each doctoral candidate contributes a unique research focus, supported by professional training, workshops, and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities across Europe.
Requirements
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MSc in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Computational Science, or a related discipline.
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Strong foundation in fluid mechanics, computational modeling, and programming.
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Ability to work in a multidisciplinary research team of engineers, medical scientists, and biologists.
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Excellent communication skills and English proficiency (C1 level).
Eligibility Criteria
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Applicants must not already hold a doctoral degree.
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Must not have resided or worked in Switzerland for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment.
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Open to candidates of all nationalities in accordance with MSCA mobility rules.
Employment Conditions
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Full-time PhD position (4 years) with mid-term evaluation after 18–24 months.
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Fully funded position under the MSCA framework.
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Strong institutional ties to the Bern University Hospital (Inselspital).
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Free German language courses available.
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Supportive academic environment with structured PhD training programs.
Salary and Benefits
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Gross Living Allowance: ~CHF 6,144/month
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Mobility Allowance: ~CHF 664/month
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Family Allowance: ~CHF 617/month
(Salary finalized per MSCA 2024 guidelines; includes applicable social security contributions.)
Application Process
Applications should include:
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Motivation letter (mention MSc thesis topic)
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Curriculum Vitae (with two referees’ contact details)
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Transcript of BSc and MSc courses and grades
Submit applications to info.artorg@unibe.ch.
Applications will be reviewed continuously until filled.
For inquiries, contact Prof. Dr. Dominik Obrist at dominik.obrist@unibe.ch.
About the University of Bern
The University of Bern is a leading Swiss research institution known for interdisciplinary research and innovation. Located in the heart of Switzerland, it promotes academic excellence and global collaboration.
The ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research serves as a hub for medical technology innovation, addressing clinical challenges through computational modeling, biomedical engineering, and translational research. The PhD student will work in the Cardiovascular Engineering (CVE) Group, which combines experimental flow systems and computational simulations to study cardiovascular devices and flow dynamics.
Disclaimer
We do not own or manage this position. The information provided is collected from the official University of Bern website and shared here for educational and informational purposes only.