Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoc 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 manufacturing substances used 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 aimed at microbial protein manufacturing from reactive gases, we are offering a position for a PostDoc.

Project Background

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

In HydroCow, we are building upon an earlier developed ultra-high-throughput screening platform designed to rapidly identify improved industrial production strains. The core of this platform features microcolonies grown in gel capsules, subjected to fluorescence-based analysis for quantifying the product of interest. This technology will be adapted for the first time to recombinant protein secretion.

Job Description

The postdoctoral fellow 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 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

• PhD in molecular biology, microbiology, or industrial biotechnology
• Strong communication skills (in English) and ability to work in teams
• Additional qualifications include:
• A solid background in chemistry and spectrometric analyses
• Development of protocols from scratch (as opposed to implementing commercial kits)
• Experience working under controlled atmospheres (e.g., glove boxes)

Workplace

The work environment will be dynamic, diverse, and focused on innovation.

We Offer

We are offering:

• An intellectually challenging position within an inspiring interdisciplinary team
• Multifaceted, applied work within a larger international team that bridges academia and industry
• The opportunity to develop technologies and protocols with commercial applications
• Personal skills development in 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 line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages 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. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about how we foster a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is core to our mission, and we are consistently striving for a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Applications will only be considered if they match the job profile.

• Letter describing your background, interest, and motivation
• CV
• Certificates (transcripts for Master's degree, certificate of doctoral degree)
• Two reference letters

Further information about BPL and D-BSSE can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed by email to Martin.Held@bsse.ethz.ch (no applications).

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 the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections worldwide, we collaborate to develop innovative solutions for today’s and tomorrow's global challenges.