PhD Student / PhD Student

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

100%, Basel, fixed-term

We develop technologies that utilize whole cell and enzyme catalysts for the manufacturing of substances applicable in areas such as sustainable chemistry, innovative food, and active pharmaceutical ingredients.

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

Project Background

This project is part of the EC-sponsored consortium HydroCow, which includes partners from the UK, Germany, and Finland, covering expertise in metabolic flux modeling, molecular engineering, manufacturing, and marketing.

For HydroCow, we are building on a previously developed ultra-high-throughput screening platform that enables the rapid identification of improved industrial production strains. Central to this platform are microcolonies grown in gel capsules that undergo fluorescence-based analysis for quantifying the product of interest. This technology will be adapted for the secretion of recombinantly synthesized proteins for the first time.

Job Description

The PhD student will undertake 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 involving up to 1E6 variant strains
• Co-representation and reporting of BPL results in consortium meetings
• Co-coordination of tasks with all consortium partners

Profile

The ideal candidate will have:

• A Master's degree in molecular biology, microbiology, or industrial biotechnology
• Strong communication skills (in English) and a collaborative spirit
• Experience or knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
• A solid background in chemistry and spectrometric analyses
• Experience in developing protocols from scratch (not just implementing commercial kits)
• Ability to work under controlled atmospheres (e.g., glove boxes)
• Prompt availability and commencement of employment would be advantageous

Workplace

The workplace is an intellectually stimulating environment located in Basel, where you will be part of an interdisciplinary team dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge.

We Offer

As part of our team, you will experience:

• An intellectually challenging position within an inspiring interdisciplinary team
• Multifaceted, applied work in a larger international team involving both academia and industry
• The opportunity to develop technologies and protocols with potential commercial applications
• Personal growth in skills such as writing, presentation, and project management
• The chance to work with and supervise students
• Participation in international conferences and project workshops

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and cultivate a working environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website for more information on how we maintain a fair environment that supports growth and development. Sustainability is a core principle for us, and we continuously strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below with the following documents:

• Letter (max. 1 A4) outlining your background, interest, and motivation
• CV
• Certificates (transcripts for Master’s degree)
• Two reference letters

For more information about BPL and D-BSSE, please visit our website. For questions regarding the position, please reach out via email to Martin.Held@bsse.ethz.ch.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is among the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society, ETH Zurich attracts over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Located in the heart of Europe, we work collaboratively to address the global challenges of today and tomorrow.