The University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) invites applications for a PhD position in Computational Biophysics, at the Dalle Molle Institute for Artificial Intelligence (IDSIA USI-SUPSI) within the Department of Innovative Technologies (DTI), located in Lugano. The degree of employment is 100%, with a contract starting on 01.05.2026, or on a mutually agreed date.
 

Duties and responsibilities

• Conduction of research activities within the European project Injectheal.
• Development of coarse-grained models for dendrons and small molecules.
• Atomistic and coarse-grained simulations of polymers, dendrons, proteins, and small molecules.
• Collaboration on other ongoing projects in the laboratory.

Requirements

• The position is for researchers who has obtained a Master (or has already submitted thesis for evaluation) in mathematics, physics, bioengineering or similar topics.
• Master thesis focused on the application of computational methods on biological systems (proteins, cellular membranes, natural and synthetized compounds, nucleic acids, etc.).
• Good knowledge of algorithms and software in a) molecular dynamics b) development of coarse-grained molecular models. 
• Excellent proficiency with state-of-the-art computational methods at molecular level (Gromacs, Amber, NAMD, .)
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.
• Communication and collaboration skills.

What SUPSI Offers

• Fixed-term employment contract.
• Fully funded Ph.D. scholarship.
• Stimulating and international workplace at IDSIA USI-SUPSI in the new campus in Lugano-Viganello (Switzerland), and access to the facilities of the robotics lab at IDSIA.
• Attractive salary in line with Swiss standards.
• Covering the costs of participation in high-profile conferences, and workshops.

Application Process

Applications will only be considered if submitted electronically by March 16, 2026, through the dedicated application form. The following documents, written in English, must be included:

• Curriculum vitae and publications list
• Three published papers in the field of the call
• Name and e-mail address of three reference contacts
• A motivation letter, including a brief description of past research experience and future interests (1-2 pages)

For further information, please contact Prof. Danani Andrea. Incomplete applications, those submitted to incorrect addresses, or those received after the deadline will not be considered. In addition to the required application documents, further documentation (such as a criminal record certificate or a copy of an identity document) may be requested at a later stage.