Laboratory Technician / Laboratory Technicianess

Laboratory Technician

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Stocker Lab at ETH Zurich, located in the Institute of Environmental Engineering, is seeking a skilled and motivated laboratory technician (e.g., EFZ Biology or Chemical Laboratory Technician) to join our team from September 1st, 2025, until the end of April 2026, with potential for extension thereafter.

The selected candidate will contribute to our project focused on developing next-generation microbial technologies for the degradation of persistent pollutants, such as PFAS. By utilizing environmental isolates and advanced microbial screening methods, we engineer bacterial consortia for industrial and environmental bioremediation. This position is vital to maintaining high-quality laboratory workflows and ensuring experimental continuity.

Job Description

You will support our scientific staff in the cultivation, processing, and characterization of environmental bacteria. This role encompasses both routine laboratory tasks and advanced analyses to bolster ongoing R&D efforts in microbial biodegradation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare sterile growth media, buffer solutions, and stock reagents
• Perform microbiological tasks (pipetting, sterile work, plating, microscopy, gram staining)
• Cultivate and maintain bacterial strains under aerobic and anaerobic conditions
• Conduct DNA extractions, PCR, and gel electrophoresis
• Support sequencing workflows (Sanger and Illumina)
• Assist with flow cytometry and analytical procedures (e.g., LC-MS, GC-MS, UPLC - training will be provided)
• Document and manage sample inventories and experimental data
• Support our Biosafety officer in maintaining lab infrastructure, ordering supplies, and ensuring general lab cleanliness
• Collaborate with scientists and students to ensure smooth project execution

Profile

Required Qualifications:

• Completed apprenticeship (EFZ) as a biology lab technician, chemical lab technician, or equivalent
• Experience in microbial culture work (plating, streaking, liquid cultures)
• Basic knowledge of molecular biology workflows (e.g., DNA extraction, PCR)
• Familiarity with laboratory safety and sterile techniques
• Good organizational skills and ability to work independently
• Strong team player with a proactive mindset
• Proficiency in English (C1 or higher)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with analytical instruments (e.g., LC-MS/MS, flow cytometry, UPLC)
• Experience with anaerobic cultivation or enrichment cultures
• Familiarity with sequencing workflows (16S, Illumina, Sanger)
• Previous experience in environmental microbiology and bioremediation is a plus

Research indicates that women and individuals from marginalized groups often apply only when they meet all listed criteria. If you feel you are qualified but do not meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply.

Workplace

[Insert Workplace Description]

We Offer:

• A modern and well-equipped laboratory in a dynamic ETH Zurich environment
• Hands-on learning opportunities and room for growth
• Involvement in cutting-edge environmental and microbiological R&D
• Flexible working conditions and opportunities for skill development

We Value Diversity

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We champion equality of opportunity, value diversity, and foster a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all 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:

• Cover Letter
• CV
• Copies of your EFZ diploma and any relevant transcripts or certificates
• Contact information for professional references

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Estelle Clerc at eclerc@ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge to society, we host over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. We are a vibrant community that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while fostering global connections, we collaboratively develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.