Doctoral Student / Doctoral Student

Doctoral Student Position - Evaluating Novel Mineral Sources for Treatment of Micronutrient Deficiencies in Humans

100%, Zurich, Fixed-term

The ETH Zurich Laboratory of Epigenetics, Nutrition and Metabolism, and Sustainable Food Processing Group in the Department of Health Science and Technology are collaboratively pursuing a significant research line focused on Microalgae and Plant-Based Foods in Human Nutrition and Health. Our Sustainable Food Processing group implements a system-oriented approach to food production, considering emerging societal needs along with their environmental, economic, and social impacts. We utilize innovative raw materials within urban farming and processing concepts to pioneer sustainable food supply solutions. The Laboratory of Epigenetics, Nutrition and Metabolism seeks to elucidate the complex interplay between nutrition, metabolism, and the epigenome through advanced techniques, including single-cell and next-generation sequencing as well as both human and murine in vivo and in vitro studies, complemented by genome-wide computational and bioinformatic analyses. With robust support from these two ETH groups, we are keen to recruit a talented and highly motivated doctoral student at the earliest opportunity, focusing on the investigation of absorption and bioavailability of novel mineral sources in clinical trials.

Project Background

Micronutrient deficiency represents a significant global health challenge, predominantly caused by inadequate dietary intake. It is estimated that over 5 billion people lack sufficient intake of at least one micronutrient, with mineral deficiencies—particularly iron, calcium, zinc, and magnesium—being especially prevalent in low- and middle-income countries. These deficiencies significantly impact women and children.

Dietary minerals generally derive from a range of food sources, including animal-based products such as meat, dairy, and seafood, as well as plant-based options like legumes, cereals, nuts, seeds, and leafy vegetables. However, dependence on traditional animal-based foods raises concerns about environmental sustainability, ethical considerations, and dietary preferences. While plant-based foods present a more sustainable alternative, they often feature lower mineral content and bioavailability due to the presence of absorption inhibitors like phytates and polyphenols. Therefore, the search for more sustainable, mineral-dense food sources is imperative for effectively combating global mineral deficiencies.

Innovative mineral sources, such as microalgae, offer a promising avenue for essential minerals, including iron, calcium, zinc, and magnesium, along with proteins, lipids, vitamins, and various bioactive compounds. Nevertheless, the bioavailability of these minerals must be rigorously evaluated through in vivo clinical trials prior to large-scale application in human nutrition.

Job Description

As a doctoral student, your key responsibilities will include:

• Summarizing existing knowledge on minerals from novel sources for human nutrition and health.
• Designing intervention meals (including sensory tests) for clinical trials.
• Assessing the bioaccessibility of minerals in vitro.
• Evaluating mineral bioavailability in vitro.
• Conducting clinical trials related to human nutrition enriched with novel mineral sources (key focus).
• Supporting teaching activities and co-supervising MSc and BSc students.
• Collaborating at the intersection of science and technology while mentoring students and fostering partnerships with academia and industry.
• Assisting in grant applications and related activities in conjunction with the Singapore-ETH Centre, Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein at NUS, ETH World Food System Center (WFSC), and the ETH for Development (ETH4D) competence center.

Profile

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A Master's degree in Nutrition and Health, Clinical Trials, Food Science and Technology (with a strong emphasis on nutrition or clinical experience), or related fields.
• A strong passion for nutrition, health, sustainability, and innovative food sources.
• Experience and interest in working on human/clinical projects (GCP certification is a requirement that can be obtained post-hire).
• Experience and profound interest in nutrition assessment utilizing in vivo models.
• The ability to thrive in a dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary team setting.
• Capacity to collaborate effectively with various teams and international partners.
• Strong interest in independent work and student supervision.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Scientific curiosity and motivation to conduct rigorous experimental work.

Workplace

You will be joining a leading research team focused on Microalgae and Plant-Based Foods in Human Nutrition and Health, supported by both ETH groups. Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and a collaborative working environment will be available. ETH Zurich provides outstanding training opportunities for career growth and maintains strong networking channels within sustainable food and nutrition realms. Moreover, assistance from research assistants will be provided as needed.

Living expenses will be supported by a standard monthly doctoral student salary in accordance with ETH guidelines.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

Aligned with our core values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, champion diversity, and cultivate a respectful working and learning environment for all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we uphold a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is fundamental to our mission, and we persistently work toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. The position is open to international students, and the selection process does not have a clear deadline; we will continue to accept applications until a suitable candidate is found. The latest possible starting date is anticipated to be September 1, 2026, with an earlier start being preferable.

For further inquiries about the position, please direct your questions to the project lead Dr. Fengzheng Gao at fengzheng.gao@hest.ethz.ch, while including Prof. Dr. Ferdinand von Meyenn at ferdinand.vonmeyenn@hest.ethz.ch and Prof. Dr. Alexander Mathys at alexander.mathys@hest.ethz.ch in the correspondence.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich stands as one of the world's premier universities specializing in science and technology, renowned for excellent education and groundbreaking research with societal impact. Our university hosts over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, fostering an environment that encourages independent thought and excellence. Positioned in the heart of Europe yet connected globally, ETH Zurich actively works to devise solutions for contemporary and future global challenges.