Bioinformatician / Bioinformaticianess

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 are seeking 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 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. 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 the management of data and shared computational infrastructure, enabling efficient and sustainable microbiome research.

Job Description

The scope of responsibilities will be adapted to the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting and contributing 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.
• 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.
• Supporting 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 the IT Staff and senior bioinformatician.
• Training 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.
• 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.

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 the analysis of 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 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 Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich is a stimulating research environment that integrates an internationally recognized, interdisciplinary research network, including close interactions with projects within the NCCR Microbiomes. We foster a collaborative and inclusive working environment with researchers from diverse scientific and cultural backgrounds.

What 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.
• 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 that accommodates your personal needs.
• A culture of collaboration, diversity, and inclusivity where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us - we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

To apply, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further 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.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.