Lab research assistant in the phytoplankton culture lab

In der aktuellen Covid-19 Situation laufen die Rekrutierungen weiter. Es kann dabei allerdings zu Verzögerungen kommen. Vielen Dank für Ihr Verständnis.

30%-40%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Climate Geology Group seeks to understand the adaptations of marine phytoplankton to past and future variations in ocean conditions, such as carbon chemistry or temperature. Our team studies the long and widespread fossil record of algae’s both coccolith calcite plates and specific organic biomarkers in marine sediments for the last 100 million years.

Job description

We are hiring a part-time (35%) research assistant to carry out a research project on marine algae as indicators to reconstruct climate history. We are very happy to train students wishing to learn about phytoplankton physiology and biochemistry, oceanography and lipid biochemistry as well as about analytical techniques.

The candidate will culture different species of phytoplankton to study their lipid composition and degree of calcification, and will monitor cell growth and other parameters under different physiological conditions.

Salary is paid on an hourly basis conform ETH regulations . Maximum working hours during the semester 15 hours per week, maximum 41 hours per week during semester breaks.

Your profile

• Currently enroled as a student at a Swiss university (bachelor or masters programme) in biology, ecology, environmental sciences or related fields.
• Basic knowledge of cell biology procedures and organic chemistry is required.
• Experience conducting cell biology procedures is a bonus.
• Interest in analytical techniques (gas chromatography, isotope ratio mass spectrometry, ICP-MS…).
• Well-organized, thoroughly documents experiments and performs experimental work rigorously.
• Basic knowledge in statistics, IT skills and English communication.

ETH Zurich

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.

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