Bioinformatics Software Engineer / Bioinformatics Software Engineeress

ETH Zurich - July 9, 2025

Bioinformatics Software Engineer for Microbiome Research

80%-100%, Zurich, Fixed-term

The position is located at the Institute of Food, Nutrition, and Health at ETH Zurich within the Laboratory of Food Systems Biotechnology (Prof. Dr. Nicholas Bokulich). The Bokulich laboratory develops bioinformatics methods and software for microbiome research, including QIIME 2, and applies these tools to study microbiomes at the interfaces of foods and human health.

Job Description

The successful applicant will develop bioinformatics software for the analysis and integration of microbiome and other omics datasets focused on studying microbial communities involved in foods and human health. The ideal candidate will possess experience in Python programming for bioinformatics software development and will be comfortable coordinating with a diverse team of interdisciplinary scientists and engineers to develop and apply open-source software across a variety of research topics.

Profile

We are seeking an experienced bioinformatics software engineer to engage in the development of the microbiome bioinformatics platform QIIME 2 and related bioinformatics tools.

Key Qualifications

  • Master's degree or Bachelor's degree plus equivalent experience in computer science, data science, electrical engineering, computational biology, or other relevant fields.
  • Proficient programming skills (Python) and software development/engineering experience.
  • Demonstrated experience developing open-source bioinformatics software.
  • Demonstrated experience with collaborative software development using Git and GitHub.
  • Experience developing and implementing GitHub Actions workflows.
  • Excellent interpersonal communication, teamwork, and organizational skills.
  • Proficiency in English (spoken and written) for effective communication with colleagues and collaborators.

Desired Qualifications

  • Experience developing with QIIME 2.
  • Knowledge of biological data structures and formats.
  • Experience working with microbiome (marker gene, metagenome) or other omics data.
  • Experience with the conda and conda-build ecosystem.
  • Experience with software containerization (Docker, Singularity).
  • Experience working in high-performance computing environments.

Workplace

Join a dynamic, innovative team dedicated to making significant contributions to the field of microbiome research.

We Offer

  • Your career with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which actively supports your professional development and contributes to positive change in society.
  • A commitment to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
  • Numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car-sharing options, a wide range of sports provided by ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and foster 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 more about how we create a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and thrive.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please include the following documents:

  • An updated curriculum vitae including a list of publications, education, and any relevant software design experience.
  • Names and contact information of 2-3 professional references.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Further information about the Institute of Food, Nutrition, and Health can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Michal Ziemski at michal.ziemski@hest.ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

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 the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe and forging connections all over the world, we work collaboratively to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

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