Postdoctoral Researcher in Molecular Biology & Biophysics

Postdoc Position in Molecular Biology & Biophysics - Hospenthal Group

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Hospenthal Group at the Institute of Molecular Biology & Biophysics (IMBB) at ETH Zurich, Switzerland, investigates the molecular mechanisms that govern natural transformation in bacteria—an essential mode of horizontal gene transfer. We utilize complementary approaches, including cryo-EM, biophysical methods, and in vivo functional assays, to study the protein machineries involved in this process.

Join our young, ambitious, and international research team. The Hospenthal group has access to state-of-the-art light and electron microscopy instrumentation, including FEI Vitrobots and related grid preparation facilities, as well as three Titan Krios microscopes, all hosted and maintained at ETH Zurich's imaging facility, ScopeM. Appropriate computational resources are also readily available. Furthermore, we have access to the biophysical instruments needed to analyze protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions.

Job Description

We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly motivated postdoctoral candidate to investigate how DNA is translocated from the extracellular environment into the bacterial cytoplasm, where it is incorporated into the genome. Your responsibilities will include:

• Expressing and purifying proteins.
• Conducting quantitative binding experiments (protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions).
• Producing stable complexes between proteins and/or DNA.
• Determining structures of proteins/complexes.
• Designing mutants and perturbations for in vivo experiments.
• Performing in vivo functional assays (e.g., microbiological approaches, fluorescence microscopy).

Ideal candidates are proactive, adaptable, and capable of precise, timely work. Given that our group primarily operates in English, strong English language skills are essential. Further project details will be discussed during the interview. The anticipated start date is no later than February 2026.

Profile

• PhD degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, or a related field.
• Motivation to tackle complex and intriguing mechanistic questions.
• Research interest in horizontal gene transfer, natural transformation, membrane proteins, and DNA transporters.
• Experience with protein expression and purification.
• Experience with quantitative biophysical methods (e.g., fluorescence anisotropy, ITC, SPR).
• Experience with cryo-EM workflow (sample/grid preparation, data acquisition, data processing, model building, and interpretation).
• The ability to write scientific papers and actively participate in internal meetings and international conferences requires a strong command of English.
• Capability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative lab culture.

Workplace

Your workplace will be on the ETH Campus at Hönggerberg in Zurich.

We Offer

We offer a stimulating role in a vibrant group exploring the molecular mechanisms underpinning bacterial evolution and resistance. This fully-funded, full-time position, combined with ETH's excellent working conditions, makes the role especially appealing. You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide array of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

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 where the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we maintain 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.

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 our exceptional education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society, we welcome over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries who find our university a place that fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Positioned in the heart of Europe while connecting worldwide, we work collaboratively to develop solutions to the global challenges of today and tomorrow.