Postdoctoral Researcher in Molecular Biology & Biophysics / Postdoctoral Researcheress 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, a crucial mode of horizontal gene transfer. We employ complementary approaches, including cryo-EM, biophysical methods, and in vivo functional assays, to explore the protein machineries involved in this process.

Join our dynamic, 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 and biophysical instruments required for analyzing protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions are also readily available.

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, integrating it 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).

The ideal candidates are proactive, adaptable, and capable of conducting precise, timely work. As 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).
• Familiarity with cryo-EM workflow (sample/grid preparation, data acquisition, data processing, model building, and interpretation).
• Proficiency in writing scientific papers and active participation in internal meetings and international conferences, requiring a good knowledge of English.
• Ability 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 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.

• Your job will have a significant impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive change in society.
• Enjoy numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We advocate for 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 find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and thrive.

Curious? So Are We.

Please apply online using the form below. 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) or visit our website.

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. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe while forging connections worldwide, we collaborate to develop solutions addressing the global challenges of today and tomorrow.