Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcheress

Postdoctoral Researcher - Bioinformatics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Clinical Genomics team, led by Dr. André Kahles at the Biomedical Informatics Lab (BMI Lab) under the direction of Prof. Gunnar Rätsch at ETH Zurich, is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a strong background in sequence bioinformatics, algorithms, and data structures. This is an excellent opportunity to join an interdisciplinary effort focused on developing innovative diagnostic technologies based on long-read sequencing and real-time sequence analysis.

Project Background

Rapid and accurate identification of bacterial infections remains a significant challenge in clinical practice, especially in emergency settings, where delayed diagnoses can result in suboptimal treatment and increased mortality from conditions like sepsis. Current diagnostic methods often require 24 to 72 hours, contributing to the empirical use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and exacerbating antimicrobial resistance.

Within the RADIANT-Dx consortium, our interdisciplinary team is committed to developing a portable diagnostic platform based on long-read sequencing. This technology will enable rapid transcriptomic profiling of both host responses and pathogens directly from blood samples. The project combines experimental and computational expertise to facilitate real-time sequence analysis, delivering clinically relevant results within hours.

Job Description

• Develop and implement novel computational methods for analyzing long-read sequencing data, including pre- and post-base-calling analysis to support the advancement of a next-generation diagnostic platform.
• Design algorithms and statistical models for real-time sequence analysis of host and pathogen transcriptomic data, focusing on 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 methods into a translational research project aimed at enabling rapid and clinically actionable diagnostics for infectious diseases.
• Lead computational research projects, publish findings in leading scientific journals, and advance methods in microbial genomics, long-read sequencing analysis, and applied computational biology.

Profile

The ideal candidate should possess a PhD degree in one of the following fields:

• Computational Biology / Bioinformatics
• Computer Science
• Statistics / Applied Mathematics
• Related quantitative fields

A strong foundation in algorithms, data structures, and statistical modeling is essential. Experience in sequence analysis, microbial genomics, and long-read sequencing data analysis is highly desirable, along with familiarity in signal processing or applied machine learning. Candidates should demonstrate a strong motivation to innovate computational methods and contribute to interdisciplinary research with potential clinical impact, ideally evidenced by a solid publication record.

Workplace

Join a vibrant environment that fosters creativity and collaboration at ETH Zurich, a world-leading institution in science and technology.

We Offer

• A role with a meaningful impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive societal change.
• Numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car-sharing options, a wide range of sports activities offered by the ASVZ, childcare support, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our core values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity and values diversity. We strive to cultivate a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a fundamental principle for us; we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your application online, including the following documents:

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

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. Apply online using the form below.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, groundbreaking research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries consider our university a place that fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe and forging connections globally, we collaborate to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.