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) and under the guidance 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. Join our interdisciplinary effort to develop innovative diagnostic technologies based on long-read sequencing and real-time sequence analysis.

Project Background

Rapid and accurate identification of bacterial infections poses a significant challenge in clinical practice, especially in emergency settings where delays in diagnosis can lead to suboptimal treatment and increased mortality, such as in cases of sepsis. Current diagnostic methods often take 24-72 hours, contributing to the empirical use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and fostering the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Within the RADIANT-Dx consortium, our interdisciplinary team is working on a portable diagnostic platform utilizing long-read sequencing to facilitate rapid transcriptomic profiling of host responses and pathogens directly from blood samples. This project integrates both experimental and computational expertise to enable real-time sequence analysis, delivering clinically actionable results within hours.

Job Description

• Develop and implement innovative computational methods for the analysis of long-read sequencing data, including both 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 suitable 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 infectious disease diagnostics.
• Lead computational research projects, publish findings in leading scientific journals, and further the development of methods in microbial genomics, long-read sequencing analysis, and applied computational biology.

Profile

The ideal candidate should possess a Ph.D. in:

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

Candidates should demonstrate a robust background in algorithms, data structures, and statistical modeling. Experience in sequence analysis, microbial genomics, and long-read sequencing data analysis is highly desirable. Familiarity with signal processing or applied machine learning will be advantageous. A strong motivation to develop innovative computational methods and contribute to interdisciplinary research with potential clinical impact is essential, ideally supported by a solid publication record.

Workplace

Join us at ETH Zurich, where you can make a genuine impact while advancing your professional development in a supportive environment.

We Offer

• A meaningful job: Be part of ETH Zurich, an institution that not only fosters your professional growth but also actively contributes to positive societal change.
• A range of benefits including public transport season tickets, car-sharing options, a wide array of sports offered by ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension plans.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our core values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, embrace diversity, and cultivate a work and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Discover more about our commitment to equality through our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. We also prioritize sustainability and are dedicated to working toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

To apply, please submit your application online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich stands as one of the world's leading universities in science and technology. Renowned for our excellent education and cutting-edge fundamental research, we facilitate the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, ETH Zurich is a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while fostering global connections, we collaborate to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's challenges.