PhD Candidate / PhD Candidate

ETH Zurich - May 1, 2025

PhD Position: Development of High-Throughput Protein Perturbation Technologies

100%, Basel, fixed-term

The Laboratory for Biological Engineering (Prof. Randall J. Platt) at ETH Zurich in Basel, Switzerland develops genome engineering technologies and applies them to a range of fundamental and disease-focused areas. To advance these efforts, the Platt group is recruiting a full-time (100%) PhD Student to develop and apply methods at the intersection of gene editing, functional genomics, protein engineering, and targeted protein degradation.

Project Background

High-throughput perturbation technologies rely on perturbing DNA or RNA to infer the function of proteins. Methods to directly perturb proteins, such as through targeted protein degradation, have been challenging to implement in high throughput. This project focuses on developing novel technologies that combine CRISPR-Cas and targeted protein degradation for high-throughput protein perturbation, enabling prototype-to-phenotype mapping.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and collaborative researcher to join a multidisciplinary team of scientists. The candidate will develop novel gene editing and targeted protein degradation methods and apply them to address fundamental biological questions and develop induced proximity therapeutics.

Profile

The ideal candidate will hold a Master's degree or equivalent in Molecular Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine, Structural Biology, Molecular and Cellular Biology, or a related field, and should have experience in several of the following areas:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Mammalian Cell Culture
  • CRISPR-Cas Gene Editing
  • Pooled CRISPR Screens
  • Preparation of Deep Sequencing Libraries for Functional Genomics
  • Targeted Protein Degradation and Induced Proximity Therapeutics
  • Protein Quantification and Characterization in the Context of Mammalian Cell Line Experiments
  • Protein Design and Engineering
  • Protein Biochemistry and Structural Biology
  • Cellular Proteostasis
  • Bioinformatics, Statistics, and Programming

The candidate must be passionate about science, technology, collaboration, and communication. A strong motivation and interest in collaborating with multidisciplinary scientists is essential. Effective communication in a highly interdisciplinary and international environment is also required, including proficiency in oral and written English and scientific illustration using Adobe Illustrator or an equivalent tool.

Workplace

The position is located in the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) at ETH Zurich in Basel, Switzerland. The D-BSSE is a highly interdisciplinary department specializing in systems and synthetic biology, bioinformatics and data science, and engineering sciences related to microfluidics and microfabrication. The D-BSSE is centrally situated within a biomedical research hub with close links to top academic institutions (e.g., Friedrich Miescher Institute (FMI), Biozentrum, and University of Basel) as well as major biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies (e.g., Novartis, Roche, Bayer, and Lonza). ETH Zurich is a global leader in science and technology, consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide. Basel, Switzerland, is an international city on the border of France and Germany, nestled between the Swiss Alps, the Black Forest, and renowned cheese and wine regions, offering easy access to arts, culture, nature, and short commutes to other parts of Europe.

We Value Diversity

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. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So Are We.

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

  • Cover letter that outlines your scientific interests and motivation for joining the group
  • CV
  • Diplomas and course transcripts
  • Contact details of two referees

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. Renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of new knowledge to society, ETH Zurich hosts over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries. Our university promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe and forging connections worldwide, we work together to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.

Location : Roche
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

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