Job Offer: Bioinformatician at the Institute of Microbiology, ETH Zurich
The Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich is on the lookout for a talented Bioinformatician to join our Microbiome Research Lab. We seek a highly motivated, skilled, and organized individual to assist multiple experimental and computational research groups. The successful candidate will play a vital role in contributing to a collaborative research network and institute-wide activities, including data management and the maintenance of computational infrastructure and software.
This position forms part of the Institute of Microbiology and is closely connected to projects within the NCCR Microbiomes, a nationwide, interdisciplinary research program aimed at understanding and engineering the structure, function, and dynamics of microbiomes across diverse biological and environmental systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Support and contribute to research projects of PhD students and postdoctoral researchers by providing expertise in bioinformatics, biostatistics, and modeling approaches.
- Perform the analysis, integration, and visualization of multi-omics data, including genomics, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and imaging data.
- Collaborate with experimental and computational researchers on study design, data interpretation, and the development of reproducible computational workflows.
- Manage research data, including organization, storage, documentation, and submission to relevant repositories.
- Contribute to the maintenance and further development of shared computational and IT infrastructure in collaboration with IT staff and senior bioinformaticians.
- Support the training of Institute members in bioinformatics and computational biology through consultations and the organization of training sessions, with experienced candidates taking a leading role in these activities.
- Assist in the development and maintenance of bioinformatics tools, pipelines, and methods for biological data analysis, with experienced candidates encouraged to spearhead method development projects.
This position is project-based and initially offered for one year, with the possibility of annual extensions based on project duration and funding.
Candidate Profile
We welcome applications from recent MSc graduates, as well as candidates with a PhD and/or several years of relevant professional experience in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, or a related field. The ideal candidate is expected to possess:
- A solid background in bioinformatics and/or computational biology, with experience in the analysis of biological data.
- Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities while working independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.
- Programming skills in one or more relevant languages (e.g., Python, R, Bash).
- Experience with omics data analysis; familiarity with additional data types is a plus.
- Competence in Linux-based computing environments; experience with high-performance computing (HPC) systems is advantageous.
- Knowledge of reproducible research practices, including workflow management and version control (e.g., Git).
Additional Experience
Depending on 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.
What We Offer
- A stimulating research environment at ETH Zurich, one of the world’s leading universities in science and technology.
- Integration into an internationally visible, interdisciplinary research network, including close interaction with projects within the NCCR Microbiomes.
- A collaborative and inclusive working atmosphere 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.
- Support for participation in scientific meetings, workshops, and training activities.
- Competitive salary and benefits in accordance with ETH Zurich regulations.
- Flexible working schedule to accommodate personal needs.
We foster a culture of collaboration, diversity, and inclusivity in an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported.
Application Process
To apply for this position, please apply online using the form below.
Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Contact Information
For questions regarding the position (no applications), please reach out to:
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
For recruitment services, the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.