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 important 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, essential grid preparation facilities, and three Titan Krios microscopes—all hosted and maintained at ETH Zurich's imaging facility, ScopeM. Additionally, we provide robust computational resources and access to the biophysical instruments necessary to analyze protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions.

Job Description

We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly motivated postdoctoral candidate to investigate the translocation of DNA from the extracellular environment into the bacterial cytoplasm, where it is incorporated into the genome. Responsibilities 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 conducting precise, timely work. As our group primarily operates in English, strong English skills are essential. Further project details will be discussed during the interview. The anticipated start date is no later than February 2026.

Profile

• Ph.D. degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology or a related field.
• Motivation to tackle complex and interesting mechanistic questions.
• Research interest in horizontal gene transfer, natural transformation, membrane proteins, and DNA transporters.
• Experience with protein expression and purification.
• Familiarity with quantitative biophysical methods (e.g., fluorescence anisotropy, ITC, SPR).
• Experience with cryo-EM workflows (sample/grid preparation, data acquisition, data processing, model building, and interpretation).
• Ability to write scientific papers and participate actively in internal meetings and international conferences; proficiency in English is required.
• Capability to work independently as well as contribute to a collaborative lab culture.

Workplace

Your workplace will be located at the ETH Campus in Hönggerberg, Zurich, offering a stimulating environment to pursue innovative research.

We Offer

We provide 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 particularly appealing. Some of the benefits include:

• Impactful work: Be part of ETH Zurich, which actively supports your professional development while contributing positively to society.
• A range of benefits, such as public transport season tickets, car sharing options, extensive sports offerings through ASVZ, childcare facilities, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Sustainability is a core value for us; we consistently work toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Applications should include the following documents:

• Cover/motivation letter demonstrating your suitability for the offered position, addressing the general research questions you have developed in the past and your future research plans at ETH.
• Curriculum vitae with a complete academic record.
• Copy of Ph.D. degree.
• Name and contact information of two references.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For additional information, please contact Prof. Dr. Manuela Hospenthal via email at manuela.hospenthal@mol.biol.ethz.ch (no application documents, please) or visit our website.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct knowledge transfer to society, ETH Zurich is home to over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries who find an inspiring environment that promotes independent thinking and excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections worldwide to find solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.