Bioinformatician in Microbiome Research
80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term
The Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich is seeking a highly motivated, skilled, and organized individual for the role of Bioinformatician within the Microbiome Research Lab. The successful candidate will support multiple experimental and computational research groups, contributing to a collaborative research network and engaging in institute-wide activities, including data management and the maintenance of computational infrastructure and software.
Project Background
This position is part of the Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich and is closely related to projects within the NCCR Microbiomes. This nationwide, interdisciplinary research program brings together experimental and computational researchers with the goal of understanding and engineering the structure, function, and dynamics of microbiomes across diverse biological and environmental systems.
Several research groups at the Institute of Microbiology participate in the NCCR Microbiomes. The Bioinformatician will play a central role in supporting collaborative research projects across the network through advanced data analysis, interpretation, and visualization using reproducible computational workflows. Additionally, the position supports institute-wide bioinformatics activities, including data management and shared computational infrastructure, enabling efficient and sustainable microbiome research.
Job Description
The scope of responsibilities will be tailored to the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate. Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting and contributing to research projects of PhD students and postdoctoral researchers by applying and advising on appropriate bioinformatics, biostatistics, and modeling approaches.
- Performing and supporting the analysis, integration, and visualization of multi-omics data (e.g., genomics, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and imaging data).
- Collaborating with experimental and computational researchers on study design, data interpretation, and the development of reproducible computational workflows.
- Assisting in research data management, including data organization, storage, documentation, and submission to relevant repositories.
- Contributing to the maintenance and further development of shared computational and IT infrastructure in collaboration with IT staff and senior bioinformaticians.
- Supporting training of Institute of Microbiology members in bioinformatics and computational biology through consultations and organization of training sessions; more experienced candidates may take a leading role in these activities.
- Contributing to the development and maintenance of bioinformatics tools, pipelines, and methods for biological data analysis; experienced candidates are encouraged to initiate and lead method development projects.
The position is project-based and initially offered for one year, with the possibility of extension on an annual basis, depending on project duration and funding.
Profile
We welcome candidates from recent MSc graduates to those with a PhD and/or several years of relevant professional experience in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, or related fields. The successful candidate is expected to have:
- A solid background in bioinformatics and/or computational biology, with experience in the analysis of biological data.
- Strong organizational skills, the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.
- Programming skills in one or more relevant languages (e.g., Python, R, Bash).
- Experience with the analysis of omics data (e.g., genomics, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics); familiarity with additional data types is advantageous.
- Familiarity with Linux-based computing environments; experience with high-performance computing (HPC) systems is a plus.
- Knowledge of reproducible research practices, including workflow management and version control (e.g., Git).
Depending on the level of experience, candidates may also demonstrate:
- Experience in data management and submission to public repositories.
- Experience in maintaining bioinformatics pipelines, software environments, or computational infrastructure.
- Experience in training or mentoring students and researchers in bioinformatics or computational biology.
- Initiative in developing bioinformatics tools, methods, or workflows.
Workplace
The Bioinformatician will be embedded within a stimulating research environment at the Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich, one of the world’s leading universities in science and technology.
We Offer
- A stimulating research environment at the Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich, known for its excellent education and cutting-edge research.
- Integration into an internationally visible, interdisciplinary research network, including close collaboration with projects within the NCCR Microbiomes.
- A collaborative and inclusive working environment with researchers from diverse scientific and cultural backgrounds.
- Access to state-of-the-art computational infrastructure and bioinformatics resources.
- Opportunities for professional development, skills training, and career advancement, with responsibilities tailored to experience and career stage.
- Support for participation in scientific meetings, workshops, and training activities.
- Competitive salary and benefits in accordance with ETH Zurich regulations.
- A flexible working schedule accommodating personal needs.
- A commitment to collaboration, diversity, and inclusivity within a valued and respectful workplace.
We Value Diversity and Sustainability
ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity and values diversity. We are dedicated to a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure an open environment for personal growth. Sustainability is central to our mission, as we continuously work towards a climate-neutral future.
Curious? So Are We.
If you are interested, please apply online using the form below. Ensure your application includes:
- A cover letter outlining your interests, relevant experience, and motivation for this position.
- A curriculum vitae (CV) including contact information for at least two references.
Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For inquiries regarding the position (no applications), please contact Prof. Shinichi Sunagawa at ssunagawa@ethz.ch, Dr. Hans-Joachim Ruscheweyh at hansr@ethz.ch, or Dr. Anna Sintsova at ansintsova@biol.ethz.ch.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
About ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich stands as one of the world's premier institutions specializing in science and technology. We are widely recognized for our exceptional education, pioneering research, and the seamless transfer of knowledge to society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university cultivates independent thinking in a vibrant environment that inspires excellence. Positioned in the heart of Europe, we forge connections globally to tackle the pressing challenges of today and tomorrow.