PhD Student in Development of Protocols for Isolation of Microbial Strains for Sustainable Protein Production / PhD Studentess in Development of Protocols for Isolation of Microbial Strains for Sustainable Protein Production

PhD Student Position in Development of Protocols for Isolation of Microbial Strains for Sustainable Protein Production

100%, Basel, fixed-term

We develop technologies to exploit whole cell and enzyme catalysts for the manufacturing of substances for applications in fields such as sustainable chemistry, innovative food, and active pharmaceutical ingredients.

For a third-party funded project in the sector of innovative, non-agricultural food aiming at microbial manufacturing of proteins from reactive gases, we are offering a position for a PhD student.

Project Background

The project is embedded in the EC-sponsored consortium HydroCow with partners from the UK, Germany, and Finland covering competences in metabolic flux modelling, molecular engineering, manufacturing, and marketing.

For HydroCow, we are building on an earlier developed ultra-high-throughput screening platform that allows for the rapid identification of improved industrial production strains. At the heart of this platform are microcolonies grown in gel-capsules, which are subjected to fluorescence-based analysis for quantification of the product of interest. This technology will now be adopted for the secretion of recombinantly synthesized proteins for the first time.

Job Description

The PhD student will perform the following tasks:

• Development of high throughput assays, typically based on fluorescence mediated by biosensors or (bio)chemicals
• Characterization of assay performance using lead strains
• Execution of large-scale screening campaigns with up to 1E6 variant strains
• Co-representation and reporting of BPL results in consortium meetings
• Co-coordination of tasks with all consortium partners

Profile

• Master’s degree in molecular biology, microbiology, or industrial biotechnology
• Strong communication (in English) and teamwork skills
• We are also looking for all or a subset of the following additional qualifications:
  • A solid background in chemistry and spectrometric analyses
  • Ability to develop protocols from scratch (as opposed to implementing commercial kits)
  • Experience working under atmosphere control (e.g., glove boxes)
• Prompt availability and commencement of employment are advantageous

Workplace

Join us in an inspiring environment that fosters innovation and collaboration.

What We Offer

We offer:

• An intellectually challenging position in the inspiring atmosphere of an interdisciplinary team
• Multifaceted, applied work in a larger international team with academia and industry
• Development of technologies and protocols that will find commercial applications
• Opportunities to develop personal skills, including writing, presentation, and project management
• Possibility to work with and supervise students
• Participation in international conferences and project workshops

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 towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online using 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 fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.