Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery at the University Hospital and University of Zurich

PhD Position in Auditory Neuroscience and Cochlear Implant Research 80 %

Start of employment 01.06.2026, temporary

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

Information on your application

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

What we offer

Our employees benefit from a wide range of attractive offers.

What we offer

Work-Life Balance
  • Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
  • Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH


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Learning and Development
  • Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
  • Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

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Food
  • Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
  • Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

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Healthcare
  • Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
  • Free seasonal flu vaccinations
  • Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

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Discounts
  • Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
  • Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
  • Special conditions on hotel reservations

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Conditions of Employment
  • Policies of the UZH
  • Most UZH staff are employed according to public law


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International Services
  • Support for people from outside Switzerland

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Campuses
  • Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
  • Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg


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Further information

Questions about the job

Flurin Pfiffner Leiter Forschung, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery +41 44 255 58 21
Contact Form

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Working at UZH
The University of Zurich offers a wide range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and 12 professional apprenticeship streams, Switzerland's largest university provides an inspiring working environment at the vanguard of research and education. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
More → https://www.uzh.ch/en/explore/work.html

Working at UZH

The University of Zurich offers a wide range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and 12 professional apprenticeship streams, Switzerland's largest university provides an inspiring working environment at the vanguard of research and education. Find out more about UZH as an employer! More
UZH