PhD Position: Respiratory Dysfunction – Mechanisms and Impact on Performance and Quality of Life

PhD Position: Respiratory Dysfunction – Mechanisms and Impact on Performance and Quality of Life
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Exercise Physiology Lab, Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, Department of Health Sciences and Technology

Project background
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Respiration and its regulation are critical for human performance, with respiratory control and function of respiratory muscles playing a central role. This is particularly evident in patients with pulmonary, cardiac, or neuromuscular diseases, but also in those recovering from COVID infection or when having undergone mechanical ventilation in the intensive care unit. The goal of our Swiss National Science Foundation project is to better understand the relationships between respiratory muscle function, respiratory control, performance, and quality of life.

Job description
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In this project, you will design studies that involve both experimental investigations in the laboratory and telemonitored training and testing sessions. The aim of these studies is to better understand the automatic respiratory control and muscle function to reduce performance limitations of patients through specific interventions and training. You will work independently and as part of a team, taking responsibility for training master’s students in the lab. You will present your findings at meetings and conferences and publish them in international journals.

Profile
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Master’s degree in Health Sciences and Technology, Human Movement Sciences, Life Sciences, or Human Medicine
Excellent understanding of physiology, MATLAB and statistic skills, and advanced technical understanding
Proactive and inquisitive personality, eager to exploring new approaches, self-motivated and team-oriented
Excellent communication skills and a high level of empathy
Experience in conducting human studies
Outstanding academic qualifications
Proficiency in both German and English (spoken and written, C1 level)

We offer
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We offer a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment with access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and technologies. ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer offering excellent working conditions. Look forward to an exciting and inspiring work environment with a rich cultural diversity.
Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich (https://ethz.ch/en/the-eth-zurich/working-teaching-and-research.html)

We value diversity
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In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.
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We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

Motivation letter (including details of research experience and career goals)
Curriculum vitae
Academic transcripts and diplomas
Two academic references

Please apply exclusively via the online application portal. Applications submitted by email or post will not be considered.

For more information about the Exercise Physiology Lab, please visit our website. If you have further questions, Prof. Dr. Christina M. Spengler will be happy to assist you, [email protected] (no application documents).

About ETH Zürich
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ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in
science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education,
cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge
into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our
university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an
environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe,
yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to
develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.