Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcheress

Postdoc Position in Development of Protocols for Isolation of Microbial Strains for Sustainable Protein Production

Location: Basel, 100%, fixed-term

We develop technologies to exploit whole cell and enzyme catalysts for the manufacturing of substances applicable in fields such as sustainable chemistry, innovative food production, and active pharmaceutical ingredients.

For a third-party funded project in the realm of innovative, non-agricultural food, focusing on microbial manufacturing of proteins from reactive gases, we are offering a Postdoc position.

Project Background

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

In HydroCow, we are enhancing an earlier developed ultra-high-throughput screening platform that allows for the rapid identification of improved industrial production strains. This platform utilizes microcolonies grown in gel capsules, subjected to fluorescence-based analysis for product quantification. This technology will be adapted for the secretion of recombinantly synthesized proteins for the first time.

Job Description

The postdoctoral fellow will be responsible for 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 (in English) and teamwork skills.
• Preferred 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 atmosphere control (e.g., glove boxes).

Workplace

The position offers an intellectually stimulating environment within an interdisciplinary team.

We Offer

We provide:

• An intellectually challenging position in an inspiring atmosphere.
• Multifaceted, applied work within a larger international team comprising academia and industry.
• Opportunities to develop technologies and protocols with commercial applications.
• Personal skill development, including writing, presentation, and project management.
• The possibility to work with and supervise students.
• Participation in international conferences and project workshops.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

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 that respects the rights and dignity of all our staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about our commitment to a fair and open environment that fosters growth and flourishing. Sustainability is at the core of our values, and we are continuously striving for a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online 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. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to encourage independent thinking and inspire excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while fostering connections across the globe, we collaborate to address today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.