PhD scholarship in Microfabrication of a Flexible Microelectrode Array for an Adaptive Cochlear Implant - DTU Nanolab

Are you interested in the interface of technology and the human body? Are you eager to contribute to a better life for patients suffering of profound hearing loss by developing novel components for cochlear implants by applying your microengineering and material science skills?

Here, we can offer you a unique opportunity to unfold your scientific creativity and inventiveness in a dynamic research environment with excellent facilities. In the ANACONDA project, we are looking for a talented PhD candidate for the microfabrication of flexible microelectrode arrays for cochlear implants. The aim is to investigate methods to prevent trauma during implantation and improve the positioning of the implant in the inner ear. In this project, funded by the Independent Research Fund Denmark, you will work in close collaboration with researchers at DTU and the University Hospital Zurich.

You will be based at DTU Nanolab, where we conduct cross-disciplinary research and apply micro- and nanotechnology to a wide range of scientific disciplines and applications. The Biomaterial Microsystems group is a highly ambitious group, pursuing research on microfabrication of polymer and carbon structures and devices for biomedical applications, bioelectrochemistry and sustainable energy. The position includes two research stays at the University Hospital in Zurich, offering insights into the clinical management and rehabilitation of patients with hearing impairment, as well as into experimental research in a biomechanics and hearing laboratory.

Responsibilities and qualifications

Hearing loss can lead to a substantially reduced quality of life and results in social isolation as well as detrimental economic impacts for society. Cochlear implants are used to treat patients with profound hearing loss. Today electrode array insertion in the cochlea is essentially done blindly, which routinely damages the fine structures in the inner ear and provokes a loss of residual hearing in 50% of the cases. In the ANACONDA project, we will investigate novel strategies for real-time monitoring and control of the implant position in the cochlea during and after surgery.

Flexible microelectrode arrays are a central component of cochlear implants. Integration of added functionalities for detection will allow us to monitor insertion depth, intracochlear position and eventual tissue contact of the implant in the cochlea. Furthermore, integration of actuation mechanisms will enable us to adjust the position of the implant.

Your main contribution in this project will be the design and microfabrication of the flexible microelectrode array, exploring processes such as thin film deposition, photolithography and etching in the recently established PolyFabLab cleanroom facility at DTU Nanolab. Furthermore, you will characterize the electrodes and evaluate the devices in ex vivo human tissue samples in collaboration with surgeons. Your primary tasks will be to:

• plan and execute experimental research
• design, fabricate and optimize flexible microelectrode arrays for cochlear implants in an iterative manner using microtechnology
• evaluate material properties and electrical performance of the microelectrodes
• establish methods for electrical measurements in the inner ear and signal treatment algorithms
• assist in preparation and testing of the microelectrode arrays at the partner institution
• collaborate with an interdisciplinary research team in a focused scientific effort
• contribute as teaching assistant at DTU Nanolab and supervise BSc and MSc student projects

You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree in micro- or nanoengineering, material science, electrical engineering, biomedical engineering or similar. Experience with electrical signal treatment is highly beneficial. You are expected to have a keen interest in biomedical microsystems and the ability to interact with researchers in a very interdisciplinary environment. Excellent English language skills are decisive to be considered for the scholarship.

Approval and Enrolment

The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education.

Assessment

The assessment of the applicants will be made by Prof. Stephan Sylvest Keller (DTU Nanolab), Prof. Massimo De Vittorio (DTU Health Tech) and Head of Research Dr. Flurin Pfiffner (University Hospital Zurich.

We offer

DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years. Preferred starting date is 1 June 2026. The position is a full-time position.

Further information

Further information may be obtained from Prof. Stephan Sylvest Keller, suke@dtu.dk. You can read more about DTU Nanolab and the Biomaterial Microsystems group at www.nanolab.dtu.dk.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.

Application procedure

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 12 April 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.