Bioinformatician / Bioinformaticianess

Bioinformatician in Microbiome Research

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich invites you to apply for the position of Bioinformatician within the Microbiome Research Lab. We are seeking a highly motivated, skilled, and organized individual to support multiple experimental and computational research groups. The successful candidate will contribute to 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 is closely linked to projects within the NCCR Microbiomes. The NCCR Microbiomes is a nationwide, interdisciplinary research program that brings together experimental and computational researchers with the aim 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 contribute to the NCCR Microbiomes. As a Bioinformatician, you 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, enhancing efficient and sustainable microbiome research.

Job Description

Your responsibilities will be tailored to your qualifications and experience, with key tasks including:

• 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 the training of Institute of Microbiology members in bioinformatics and computational biology through consultations and the 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 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 ideal 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, capable of managing multiple tasks and priorities, and the ability 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 an advantage.
• A solid understanding of 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 your level of experience, additional qualifications may include:

• 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

ETH Zurich is known for its outstanding research environment. You will be part of an internationally visible, interdisciplinary research network with close connections to projects within the NCCR Microbiomes.

We Offer

• A stimulating research environment at the Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich, one of the world's leading universities in science and technology.
• 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.
• A competitive salary and benefits in accordance with ETH Zurich regulations.
• A flexible working schedule to accommodate your personal needs.
• A culture of collaboration, diversity, and inclusivity where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture and promotes equality of opportunity. We value diversity and strive to nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we foster a fair and open environment. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are committed to working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your application 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 this position.
• Curriculum vitae (CV) including the contact information of at least two references.

For further information about the workplace and the NCCR Microbiomes, please visit the websites of the Microbiology Institute and the Microbiome Research Lab.

For questions regarding the position (no applications), you may contact 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 among the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, we promote independent thinking and foster an inspiring environment. Located in the heart of Europe, we collaborate globally to develop innovative solutions for today’s and tomorrow's challenges.