PhD Candidate in Metabolic Discovery and Mechanistic Physiology using Exhalomics in Dairy Cows / PhD Candidate in Metabolic Discovery and Mechanistic Physiology using Exhalomics in Dairy Cows

PhD Position in Metabolic Discovery and Mechanistic Physiology using Exhalomics in Dairy Cows

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Animal Nutrition group at ETH Zurich invites applications for a PhD position focused on the interface of ruminant nutrition, animal health, and physiological phenotyping using emerging non-invasive exhalomics (exhaled breath metabolomics). This research program integrates animal experiments with advanced analytical techniques and bioinformatics to enhance the understanding and monitoring of physiological metabolism in dairy cows. The successful candidate will collaborate within a dynamic research team led by Mutian Niu, benefiting from a state-of-the-art dairy research facility, a metabolic center, and high-resolution analytical platforms.

Project Background

The PhD student will explore three major research components centered around exhalomics and its application to animal physiology and health:

• Nutrient Metabolism in Dairy Cows: Conduct controlled nutritional experiments to evaluate how dietary factors influence rumen function and metabolic responses.
• Immune Challenges and Early Detection of Health Perturbations: Perform immune-related animal experiments using LPS challenge to examine how inflammatory states alter metabolic signatures in dairy cows.
• Large-Scale Exhalomics in Dairy Cows: Undertake an observational study comparing exhaled-breath profiles of healthy and hospitalized animals.

Across all three components, the project will utilize high-resolution mass-spectrometry and complementary data streams to explore how exhaled metabolites reflect physiological status.

Job Description

• Conduct in vivo/in vitro experiments in collaboration with an experienced research team.
• Perform physiological and metabolic sampling (rumen, breath, blood, fecal, urine, milk).
• Operate, integrate, extract, and interpret data from high-resolution mass spectrometry platforms.
• Organize, manage, and analyze large datasets, including utilizing bioinformatics.
• Communicate scientific results in written and oral forms, including conference presentations.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Participate actively in group meetings and collaborative research discussions.
• Support other team members in carrying out their animal experiments/projects.

Profile

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree in Animal Science, Biology, Physiology, Veterinary Science, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, or related fields.
• Ability to conduct structured, well-documented experimental work.
• Strong motivation to work with animals.
• Curiosity for science.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Proficient in English.

Desired (but not required) Skills

• Experience with nutritional, immunological (LPS), or metabolic models in animals.
• Familiarity with laboratory techniques in biochemistry, metabolomics, or bioinformatics.
• Exposure to mass spectrometry or analytical chemistry tools.
• Knowledge of statistical/data-science/bioinformatics tools.

Workplace

ETH Zurich offers a stimulating research environment within a world-leading institution, complete with access to state-of-the-art facilities and datasets. Opportunities for professional growth abound, including conferences and collaborations with numerous research organizations and industry partners.

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, and we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• A cover letter outlining your motivation and fit for the role.
• A detailed CV with a publication list and relevant experience.
• BSc and MSc transcripts.
• A copy of your Master’s thesis (if available).
• Contact details for 2-3 professional references.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For questions about the position, please contact Mutian Niu via email at mutian.niu@usys.ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is a leading university specializing in science and technology, renowned for its excellent education and cutting-edge research. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.