Doctoral Student in Food Biochemistry

Doctoral Student in Food Biochemistry

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Research in the Laboratory of Food Biochemistry focuses on various chemical and analytical aspects of healthy and sustainable foods and food systems. Individual research projects center around dietary fibers and associated small molecules, exploring their occurrence, interactions, and properties in foods during processing, storage, and digestion. The group also undertakes several ongoing projects on fermentation and assessment and optimization of new raw materials for food use. This work includes the development of improved analytical methods to analyze these components and their reactions.

The group is seeking two doctoral students to work on projects related to the exploration, chemical characterization, and optimization of grain-based foods and food ingredients, focusing on potential health effects, improved sensory properties, and sustainable use of raw materials. Project details can be adjusted to align with the candidates' experiences and interests.

Job Description

You are expected to produce a dissertation project that typically includes at least three high-quality papers intended for top-tier journals. In addition to your doctoral research project, you will occasionally contribute to undergraduate student supervision, teaching, and collaborative research projects. The position offers close supervision and collaboration with an excellent research team, as well as access to ETH Zurich's exceptional research infrastructure and strong international network of collaborators.

Position Details

• Start Date: Flexible, applications reviewed on a rolling basis
• Funding: Fully funded PhD position (approximately 4 years; final admission to Doctoral Program after successful Aptitude Colloquium after 1.5 years, with annual contract extensions)

Profile

We are looking for highly motivated students with strong skills in chemical analysis. Experience in LC-MS, GC-MS, and EPR is considered advantageous, in addition to familiarity with standard analytical techniques (GC, HPLC, NMR, FT-IR, measurements of physical properties). Furthermore, expertise in food sciences and the food value chain is an advantage. Given the multidisciplinary nature of the research topics, applicants should be eager to quickly adapt to new techniques.

Inclusion Criteria

• Master's degree in food chemistry, food sciences, organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, or a related discipline
• Graduation ideally not older than two years at the time of application
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written)
• Proven track record of strong academic performance
• Solid experience in a chemistry laboratory environment
• Outstanding performance in the Master's thesis or comparable demonstration of research potential
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams

Workplace

Your workplace will be at ETH Zurich, a hub for cutting-edge research and a diverse community committed to innovation.

We Offer

• The opportunity to shape your research project and conduct cutting-edge research in a highly relevant and rapidly evolving field
• An inspiring, international, and supportive research environment
• A dissertation project consisting of at least three papers aimed at top-tier journals
• Access to ETH Zurich's exceptional research infrastructure and strong international collaborations
• Competitive salary and employment conditions according to ETH Zurich regulations
• A great research team committed to diversity, accommodating individual needs (e.g., flexible working hours, possibility for part-time work, home office upon agreement)

We Value Diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equal opportunity, value diversity, and nurture 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 how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive.

Curious? So Are We.

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

• Curriculum Vitae, including a List of Publications
• Abstract of your MSc thesis
• Academic transcript of your studies
• One-page statement on your motivation, past research experience, and research interests (in English)
• Contact details of three reference persons (academic references preferred)

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

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 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 inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe and forging connections worldwide, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.