Bioinformatician in Microbiome Research
80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term
The Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich invites applications for a Bioinformatician embedded in the Microbiome Research Lab. We seek a highly motivated, skilled, and organized individual to support multiple experimental and computational research groups. The successful candidate will contribute to both a collaborative research network and 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 closely linked to projects within the NCCR Microbiomes, a nationwide, interdisciplinary research program. This initiative brings together experimental and computational researchers to understand and engineer the structure, function, and dynamics of microbiomes across diverse biological and environmental systems.
Research groups at the Institute of Microbiology contribute to the NCCR Microbiomes, and the Bioinformatician will play a central role in supporting collaborative research projects through advanced data analysis, interpretation, and visualization using reproducible computational workflows. This position also supports institute-wide bioinformatics activities, including data management and shared computational infrastructure, enabling efficient and sustainable microbiome research.
Job Description
The responsibilities of this role will be tailored to the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate. Key responsibilities include:
- Support and contribute to research projects of PhD students and postdoctoral researchers at the Institute of Microbiology by applying and advising on appropriate bioinformatics, biostatistics, and modeling approaches.
- Perform and support the analysis, integration, and visualization of multi-omics data (e.g., 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.
- Support research data management, including data 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 of Microbiology members in bioinformatics and computational biology through individual consultations and the organization of training sessions (e.g., workshops); more experienced candidates may take a leading role in these activities.
- Contribute 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.
This position is project-based and initially offered for one year, with the possibility of extension on a yearly basis depending on project duration and funding.
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 successful candidate is expected to have:
- A solid background in bioinformatics and/or computational biology, with experience in analyzing biological data.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities, working 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); experience with additional data types is an advantage.
- Familiarity with Linux-based computing environments; experience with high-performance computing (HPC) systems is an advantage.
- Knowledge of reproducible research practices, including workflow management and version control (e.g., Git).
Depending on the level of experience, the candidate may additionally 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 Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich offers a stimulating research environment and access to state-of-the-art computational infrastructure and bioinformatics resources.
We Offer
- A stimulating research environment at 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 environment with researchers from diverse scientific and cultural backgrounds.
- Opportunities for professional development, skills training, and career advancement, with responsibilities adapted 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.
- Flexible working schedule that accommodates personal needs.
- A culture of collaboration, diversity, and inclusivity, where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported.
Valuing Diversity and Sustainability
ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity and valuing diversity. Our goal is to nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Additionally, we are committed to sustainability, actively working toward a climate-neutral future.
Curious? So Are We.
We invite you to apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
- A cover letter outlining your interests, relevant experience, and motivation for applying to this position.
- A curriculum vitae (CV) including the contact information of at least two references.
For further information about the workplace and the NCCR Microbiomes, please explore the Institute's website and the group webpage of the Microbiome Research Lab.
Questions regarding the position (no applications) can be directed to Prof. Shinichi Sunagawa (ssunagawa@ethz.ch), Dr. Hans-Joachim Ruscheweyh (hansr@ethz.ch), or Dr. Anna Sintsova (ansintsova@biol.ethz.ch).
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
About ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology, renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find ETH Zurich to be a place promoting independent thinking and inspiring excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we work collaboratively to address global challenges of today and tomorrow.