Doctoral Student / Doctoral Studentess

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 actively engaged in a strategic research initiative focusing on Microalgae and Plant-Based Foods in Human Nutrition and Health. The Sustainable Food Processing group adopts a system-oriented approach to food production by considering the entire value chain, addressing societal needs, and evaluating their environmental, economic, and social impacts. Utilizing innovative raw materials within urban farming and processing concepts, we aim to develop sustainable food supply methods.

The Laboratory of Epigenetics, Nutrition and Metabolism is dedicated to understanding the intricate relationship between nutrition, metabolism, and the epigenome through advanced techniques such as single-cell and next-generation sequencing, as well as human and murine in vivo and in vitro studies. We combine these techniques with genome-wide computational and bioinformatic analyses.

With robust support from these two ETH groups, we are seeking a talented and highly motivated doctoral student to research Novel Sources of Minerals for Treating Micronutrient Deficiencies in Humans, with a focus on investigating the absorption and bioavailability of novel mineral sources in vivo through clinical trials.

Project Background

Micronutrient deficiency is a prevalent global health issue, primarily resulting from inadequate dietary intake. It is estimated that over 5 billion individuals do not consume sufficient amounts of at least one micronutrient. Among these, mineral deficiencies, particularly of iron, calcium, zinc, and magnesium, are especially critical and prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, affecting mainly women and children.

Dietary minerals are typically derived from various foods, including animal-based products like meat, dairy, and seafood, as well as plant-based foods such as legumes, cereals, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens. However, the heavy reliance on conventional animal-based foods raises concerns regarding environmental sustainability, ethical considerations, and dietary preferences. Although plant-based foods are more sustainable, they often contain lower mineral content and bioavailability due to the presence of absorption inhibitors like phytates and polyphenols. Thus, there is a pressing need to explore alternative, sustainable, and mineral-dense food sources to effectively combat global mineral deficiencies.

New mineral sources, such as microalgae, are promising candidates rich in essential minerals, including iron, calcium, zinc, and magnesium, alongside proteins, lipids, vitamins, and other bioactive compounds. Nevertheless, the bioavailability of these minerals must be evaluated through in vivo clinical trials before widespread application in humans.

Job Description

As a doctoral student, your 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 focused on human nutrition enriched with novel mineral sources.
• Supporting teaching activities and co-supervising MSc and BSc students.
• Acting as a liaison between science and technology while supervising students and collaborating with partners from academia and industry.
• Assisting with grant applications and related activities involving the Singapore-ETH Centre, Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein at NUS, ETH World Food System Center (WFSC), and ETH for Development (ETH4D) competence center.

Profile

• A MSc in Nutrition and Health, Clinical Trials, Food Science and Technology (preferably with strong nutrition or clinical experience), or relevant fields.
• A strong passion for nutrition and health, sustainability, and novel food sources.
• Expertise in human/clinical-related work (a GCP certificate is required but can be obtained after starting).
• Experience and keen interest in nutrition assessment using in vivo models.
• Ability to work in a dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary team.
• Strong collaborative skills with various teams and national and international partners.
• Ability to work independently and supervise students.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Scientific curiosity and motivation to conduct rigorous experimental work.

Workplace

You will be part of a leading research team specializing in Microalgae and Plant-Based Foods in Human Nutrition and Health, benefiting from extensive support from both ETH groups. The environment will provide access to state-of-the-art research equipment and a collaborative atmosphere that promotes career development. ETH Zurich is committed to fostering excellence, diversity, and sustainability.

Application Process

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

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is among the world’s leading universities in science and technology, renowned for its outstanding education, cutting-edge research, and direct application of new knowledge in society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, we cultivate independent thinking and foster an environment that encourages excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, ETH Zurich builds connections globally to develop solutions for contemporary and future challenges.