Student Research Assistant in Biocommunication / Student Research Assistantess in Biocommunication

ETH Zurich - May 21, 2026

Student Research Assistant in Biocommunication

Location: Zurich, fixed-term (10%-30%)

The position is offered in the Biocommunication Group at ETH Zurich, led by Professor Consuelo De Moraes. Our group investigates plant-insect interactions through behavioral, chemical, and molecular approaches. We are seeking a motivated student to support a research project focused on flowering responses in various plant species following bumblebee-inflicted leaf damage.

Job Description

In this role, you will collaborate with a PhD student to conduct flowering assays with different plant species. The project includes both plant maintenance and experimental work involving bumblebees, particularly bee-damage treatments. We are looking for a reliable and organized student who enjoys hands-on work with plants, insects, and greenhouse experiments.

Upon completing the required training, you will perform routine tasks with increasing independence. We aim to offer as much flexibility as possible regarding working hours and days, though occasional weekend work may be necessary.

The job primarily involves:

  • Cleaning, organizing, and preparing experimental equipment
  • Potting, watering, and maintaining plants
  • Bumblebee rearing
  • Preparing experimental setups for bumblebee damage treatments
  • Assisting with the execution and monitoring of experiments
  • Supporting general laboratory and greenhouse maintenance

Workload: Approximately 15-18 hours per month, corresponding to a 10-30% position, typically consisting of 3-4 hours spread flexibly over the week.

Start date: Beginning of June

Duration: 6 months, with the possibility of extension to a year.

All work will take place on the ETH Zurich campus, primarily in the LFO building and the LFG greenhouse. Occasional work may also occur in the experimental garden located outside near LFW.

Profile

  • Current Bachelor’s or Master’s student at ETH Zürich or UZH
  • Fluent in English
  • Comfortable working with bumblebees and free from known allergies to bee stings
  • Reliable, careful, and well-organized
  • Willingness to work in laboratory, greenhouse, and occasional outdoor experimental settings

Workplace

Your Job with Impact: Join ETH Zurich, where your professional development is supported while actively contributing to positive societal change. We are committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university, offering numerous benefits such as public transport season tickets, car sharing, access to a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

Aligned with our core values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, celebrate diversity, and nurture a respectful working and learning environment for all staff and students. For more information on our commitment to equality and diversity, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is foundational to our mission as we strive for a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

If you are interested in this position, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further information about the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, please visit our website.

Inquiries regarding the position may be directed to Dr. Nina Stanczyk at biocommunication@usys.ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich stands as one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for exceptional education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct knowledge transfer to society, our university is home to over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries. We provide an environment that fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while connecting globally, we collaborate to address the pressing challenges of today and tomorrow.

Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

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