Laboratory Automation Scientist / Laboratory Automation Scientistess

Laboratory Automation Scientist

90%, Basel, permanent

The Laboratory Automation Facility (LAF) is a central research and service platform within the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) at ETH Zurich, located in Basel. We provide scientists and students in our department with access to complex laboratory workflows on automated liquid handling systems, such as Hamilton and HighRes, as well as other automation devices.

Project Background

We are seeking a highly motivated laboratory automation specialist to support and advance automated workflows across our robotic platforms. This position combines the responsibilities of a laboratory automation specialist with hands-on biological expertise to enable high-quality, reproducible, and scalable experimental workflows in an academic research environment. The successful candidate will play a key role at the interface of laboratory automation technologies and multidisciplinary life science research, collaborating closely with scientists from diverse disciplines, including molecular biology, microbiology, and cell biology.

Job Description

• Design, implement, optimize, and maintain automated laboratory workflows for life science applications.
• Provide expert support for laboratory automation platforms (e.g., liquid handling robots, integrated systems, scheduling software).
• Collaborate with researchers to translate biological assays into automated or semi-automated processes.
• Support applications in molecular biology, microbiology, and cell biology (e.g., PCR/qPCR, NGS library prep, cell-based assays, high-content screening, microbial cultivation, cloning).
• Train and advise users on automation systems, best practices, and experimental design.
• Troubleshoot technical and biological issues related to automated workflows.
• Contribute to documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and quality assurance.
• Evaluate and help introduce new automation technologies and methods within the core facility.

Profile

• PhD in life sciences, biotechnology, bioengineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in biological laboratory techniques, particularly in molecular biology, microbiology, and/or cell biology.
• Practical experience with laboratory automation systems (e.g., liquid handlers, robotic workstations).
• Familiarity with automation software (e.g., Hamilton Venus), scripting, or workflow scheduling (e.g., HighRes Cellario) and experience with standard programming languages such as Python, C++, Matlab, or R.
• Understanding of assay development and adaptation for automated environments.
• Ability to communicate effectively with researchers from different scientific backgrounds.
• Previous experience in a laboratory automation role, preferably in a core facility environment, is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a service-oriented mindset.
• Excellent team player with multitasking skills and the ability to adapt to various scientific areas.

Workplace

The position is technically and scientifically challenging, situated within a state-of-the-art research infrastructure. The successful candidate will have direct responsibility for newly established laboratory automation platforms and the opportunity to shape and further develop automated experimental workflows in close collaboration with scientists and engineers. The role offers a high degree of autonomy and ownership over complex systems and technical solutions, set within a collaborative, international, and multidisciplinary working environment at the D-BSSE of ETH Zurich.

We Offer

Access to cutting-edge technologies at the interface of automation, engineering, biology, and data-driven research is provided, along with opportunities for professional development and skill expansion in automation, instrumentation, and digital laboratory technologies. The position includes competitive employment conditions and benefits according to ETH Zurich regulations.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us; we are consistently working toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

To apply online, please use 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. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, we foster an environment that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe yet forging connections worldwide, we collaborate to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.