Doctoral position on “Physics of microbial behaviour in porous media”

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Subsurface Environmental Processes Group (Eawag and ETH Zurich) and the Environmental Microfluidics Group (Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering at ETH Zurich) are seeking a dynamic and motivated doctoral student to study the physics of microbial behaviour in complex environments.

Project background

The subsurface, including soils and aquifers, hosts critical processes for the availability of life-sustaining resources. In this environment, bacteria play a major role in triggering chemical reactions and mediating biogeochemical processes. The subsurface is typically highly heterogeneous in the spatial distribution of fluid flow velocities and chemicals, such as pollutants or nutrients. Bacteria in such environments are therefore exposed to heterogeneous hydrodynamic and chemical landscapes.

Job description

The focus of this PhD project will be on quantifying the population dynamics of different strains competing in this environment. You will have the unique opportunity to learn, develop and apply a range of cutting-edge experimental techniques, including microfluidic technology, image analysis and state-of-the-art microscopy. Findings will help advance an important new paradigm in soil ecology – the importance of microscale processes and dynamics – and will carry fundamental implications for our ability to predict the response of soil microorganisms to environmental perturbations.

Your profile

• You have a background in physics, biophysics, engineering, or related areas, with a strong quantitative inclination.
• You have the desire to work experimentally at the interface between physics and microbial ecology.
• You have the opportunity to work in a highly interdisciplinary, fast-paced research environment, gain skills in a number of technologies (microfluidics and optical microscopy, among others), learn about fundamental biophysical and ecological processes in soils, and interact with world-class collaborators in fluid mechanics and microbial ecology.
• The ability to work independently, but also to interact and collaborate within a team, will be great assets.

The project will be jointly supervised by Dr. Joaquin Jimenez-Martinez (Eawag and ETH Zurich) and Prof. Roman Stocker (ETH Zurich).

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

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Curious? So are we.

We look forwardto receiving your online application including:

• a CV
• full transcripts from undergraduate studies (both Bachelor and Masters)
• a brief (1-2 page) statement of research interests
• at least 2 (preferably 3) letters of reference

Please note that we only accept applications submitted through the ETH online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Review of applications will begin on February 1st and continue until the position is filled. For questions regarding the position, please contact Dr Joaquin Jimenez-Martinez by email at [email protected] or [email protected] .

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising 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 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.