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 is running a joint strategic research line on Microalgae and Plant-Based Foods in Human Nutrition and Health. The Sustainable Food Processing group focuses on a system-oriented approach in food production by considering the entire value chain, addressing emerging societal needs and their environmental, economic, and social impact. Innovative raw materials are utilized within urban farming and processing concepts to enable new sustainable food supply solutions. The Laboratory of Epigenetics, Nutrition and Metabolism aims to gain insights into the complex relationship between nutrition, metabolism, and the epigenome through advanced techniques, including single-cell and next-generation sequencing as well as human and murine in vivo and in vitro studies, complemented by genome-wide computational and bioinformatic analysis. With strong support from these two ETH groups, we are recruiting a talented and highly motivated doctoral student to focus on novel sources of minerals for treating micronutrient deficiencies in humans, particularly investigating the absorption and bioavailability of these novel mineral sources in vivo in clinical trials.

Project Background

Micronutrient deficiency is a widespread global health issue, primarily driven by inadequate dietary intake. It is estimated that more than 5 billion people do not consume sufficient amounts of at least one micronutrient. Mineral deficiencies, especially iron, calcium, zinc, and magnesium, are particularly critical and commonly occur in low- and middle-income countries, impacting vulnerable populations, particularly women and children.

Dietary minerals are typically acquired from a variety of foods, including animal-based products (meat, dairy, seafood) and plant-based foods (legumes, cereals, nuts, seeds, leafy vegetables). However, reliance on conventional animal-based foods raises concerns regarding environmental sustainability, ethical considerations, and dietary preferences. While plant-based foods are generally more sustainable, they often have lower mineral content and bioavailability due to the presence of absorption inhibitors like phytates and polyphenols. Given these limitations, there is a pressing need to explore alternative, more sustainable, and mineral-dense food sources that can effectively address global mineral deficiencies.

Novel mineral sources, such as microalgae, could provide a rich array of essential minerals, including iron, calcium, zinc, and magnesium, as well as proteins, lipids, vitamins, and other bioactive compounds. However, their bioavailability must be assessed through in vivo clinical trials before large-scale application in humans.

Job Description

As a doctoral student, you will be responsible for conducting research aimed at exploring the absorption and bioavailability of novel mineral sources through clinical trials.

• Summarize existing knowledge on minerals from novel sources for human nutrition and health.
• Design intervention meals (including sensory tests) for clinical trials.
• Assess the bioaccessibility of minerals in vitro.
• Evaluate mineral bioavailability in vitro.
• Conduct clinical trials related to human nutrition enriched with novel mineral sources (key).
• Support teaching activities and co-supervise MSc and BSc students.
• Act at the interface between science and technology when supervising students and collaborating with partners from academia and industry.
• Assist with grant application processes and related activities from the Singapore-ETH Centre, Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein at NUS, ETH World Food System Center (WFSC), and ETH for Development (ETH4D) competence centre.

Profile

• MSc in Nutrition and Health, Clinical Trials, Food Science and Technology (with strong nutrition or clinical experience), or relevant fields.
• A strong passion for nutrition and health, sustainability, and novel food sources.
• Expertise and interest in working with human/clinical studies (GCP certificate is compulsory but can be obtained after starting).
• Experience and strong interest in nutrition assessment using in vivo models.
• Ability to work in a dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary team.
• Capability to collaborate with diverse teams and national and international partners.
• Interest in working independently and supervising students.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Scientific curiosity and motivation to perform methodologically rigorous experimental work.

Workplace

ETH Zurich offers a unique working environment where you will collaborate with a leading research team focused on Microalgae and Plant-Based Foods in Human Nutrition and Health. You will utilize state-of-the-art research equipment in an excellent and open working atmosphere. ETH Zurich and the team provide strong training opportunities for career development, as well as access to extensive networks in both sustainable food and nutrition. Support from research assistants will also be available when needed.

Living expenses will be supported through a fixed-rate standard monthly doctoral student salary according to ETH guidelines.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open atmosphere that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are continually working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society, we attract over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Our university fosters independent thinking and creates an environment that inspires excellence. Positioned in the heart of Europe while maintaining connections globally, we collaborate to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.