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 an emerging non-invasive exhalomics approach. This research program integrates animal experiments with advanced analytical techniques and bioinformatics to enhance our understanding and monitoring of physiological metabolism in dairy cows. The successful candidate will work 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 work on three major research components centered around exhalomics and its applications to animal physiology and health:
- Nutrient Metabolism in Dairy Cows: This component involves conducting controlled nutritional experiments to evaluate how dietary factors influence rumen function and metabolic responses.
- Immune Challenges and Early Detection of Health Perturbations: This component involves several immune-related animal experiments using LPS challenge to examine how inflammatory states alter metabolic signatures in dairy cows.
- Large-Scale Exhalomics in Dairy Cows: This observational study compares 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 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 bioinformatics.
- Communicate scientific results in written and oral form, including conference presentations.
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
- Participate actively in group meetings and collaborative research discussions.
- Support other team members in their animal experiments/projects.
Profile
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Animal Science, Biology, Physiology, Veterinary Science, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, or related fields.
- Ability to perform structured, well-documented experimental work.
- Strong motivation to work with animals.
- Curiosity for science.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Proficient in the English language.
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.
- Statistical/data-science/bioinformatic tools.
Workplace
Join a stimulating research environment in a world-leading institution, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and datasets.
What We Offer
- Opportunities for professional growth, including conferences, collaborations with various research organizations (e.g., PSI, Iowa State University, University of Zurich, etc.), and industry partners.
- Competitive salary in accordance with ETH Zurich standards, flexible working hours, and support for work-life balance.
- Membership in a diverse, international team committed to innovative, impactful science.
- ETH Zurich is dedicated to promoting diversity and seeks candidates who are committed to fostering an inclusive environment.
We Value Diversity and Sustainability
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. Sustainability is a core value for us as we continuously work towards a climate-neutral future.
Curious? So Are We.
We look forward to your online application including:
- A cover letter outlining your motivation and fit for the role.
- A detailed CV with publication list and relevant experience.
- BSc. and MSc. transcripts.
- A copy of Master thesis (if available).
- Contact details for 2-3 professional references.
Apply online using the form below. 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 direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find that our university 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.