Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoctoral Researcher - Bioinformatics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Clinical Genomics team, led by Dr. André Kahles at the Biomedical Informatics Lab (BMI Lab) under Prof. Gunnar Rätsch at ETH Zurich, is on the lookout for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher. The ideal candidate will possess a robust background in sequence bioinformatics, algorithms, and data structures. This position offers the opportunity to be part of an interdisciplinary initiative focused on developing innovative diagnostic technologies utilizing long-read sequencing and real-time sequence analysis.

Project Background

The rapid and accurate identification of bacterial infections poses a significant challenge within clinical practice, particularly in emergencies where delays in diagnosis can lead to suboptimal treatment and increased mortality rates in conditions such as sepsis. Current diagnostic methods often require 24-72 hours, which can result in the unnecessary use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and contribute to the rise of antimicrobial resistance. Within the RADIANT-Dx consortium, our diverse team is working towards a portable diagnostic platform based on long-read sequencing, enabling rapid transcriptomic profiling of host responses and pathogens directly from blood samples. This project combines both experimental and computational expertise to facilitate real-time sequence analysis and provide clinically actionable results within hours.

Job Description

• Develop and implement novel computational methods for analyzing long-read sequencing data, encompassing both pre- and post-base-calling analysis to support the creation of a next-generation diagnostic platform.
• Design algorithms and statistical models for real-time analysis of host and pathogen transcriptomic data, emphasizing robust and scalable approaches for clinical applications.
• Collaborate closely with an interdisciplinary team of bioinformaticians, microbiologists, clinicians, and engineers across ETH Zurich, the University of Zurich, and the University Hospital Zurich.
• Contribute to the integration of bioinformatics methodologies into a translational research project aimed at facilitating rapid and clinically actionable diagnostics for infectious diseases.
• Lead computational research projects, publish findings in leading scientific journals, and advance methodologies in microbial genomics, long-read sequencing analysis, and applied computational biology.

Profile

The ideal candidate should hold a PhD in:

• Computational Biology / Bioinformatics
• Computer Science
• Statistics / Applied Mathematics
• Or a related quantitative field

Applicants should possess a strong foundation in algorithms, data structures, and statistical modeling. Experience in sequence analysis, microbial genomics, and long-read sequencing analysis is highly desirable. Familiarity with signal processing or applied machine learning is advantageous. The successful applicant should demonstrate a strong drive to innovate computational methods and contribute to interdisciplinary research with potential clinical impact, ideally backed by an impressive publication record.

Workplace

Join us at ETH Zurich, a global leader in science and technology, known for its excellent education, cutting-edge research, and impactful societal contributions. You will be part of an inclusive culture that promotes diversity and offers numerous professional development opportunities.

We Offer

• Impactful work: Become part of ETH Zurich, which supports your professional growth while actively contributing to societal change.
• Numerous benefits including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, a wide range of sports activities, childcare facilities, and attractive pension plans.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that ensures equal opportunities for all. We value diversity and offer a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignities of every individual. Our commitment to sustainability drives us to work consistently towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

To apply, please use the online form below, ensuring to include the following documents:

• Research proposal (approximately 2-3 pages)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover letter/personal statement with the names of three referees

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our exceptional education, groundbreaking fundamental research, and our commitment to transferring new knowledge to society. Our diverse community of over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries values independent thinking and an environment that fosters excellence. Located at the heart of Europe, yet connected globally, we collaboratively address today's and tomorrow's global challenges.