PhD Position in Chemical Biology

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The research group for Chemical Biology and Molecular Imaging (Frei Research Group ) at ETH Zurich is looking for two doctoral researchers to develop chemistry inspired tools for advanced fluorescence microscopy and then use the tools to study dynamic cellular processes. Both positions are fully funded.

Research in the Frei Research Group focuses on the development of novel chemigenetic tools such as fluorescent biosensors and perturbation tools. We implement these technologies with cutting edge fluorescence microscopy techniques including super-resolution microscopy and fluorescence lifetime imaging to investigate cell signaling and metabolism.

Job description

The two positions both focus on the development of chemigenetic tools that combine synthetic fluorophores with genetically encodable components like self-labeling protein tags for application in cell biology. The work is highly interdisciplinary and collaborative, involving synthetic chemistry and/or protein engineering as well as cell biology and fluorescence microscopy. The positions are available from August 2024 onwards.

Your profile

We are looking for someone with:

• A MSc degree in Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry or a closely related discipline
• Strong communication skills and proficiency of the English language
• Strong motivation and curiosity for research in Chemical Biology
• Motivation to work in a multidisciplinary and multicultural environment
• Prior experience in any of the following: synthetic chemistry, fluorophore chemistry, molecular biology, cell biology or fluorescence microscopy is a plus

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions and offers highly competitive salaries .

Moreover, our research group offers:

• An open and collaborative research environment
• Access to and training in cutting-edge methodologies and instrumentation (e.g. ScopeM)
• Career development under direct mentorship

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

chevron_right Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity

In line with

our values

, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our

Equal Opportunities and Diversity website

to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.

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

• Curriculum Vitae including the name and contact information of at least two referees
• A cover letter detailing your research background and research interests (< 1 page)
• Academic transcripts (Bachelor and Master)

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

Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis until the two positions are filled, final deadline 29th February 2024. Further information about the Frei Research Group can be found on our website . Questions regarding these positions should be directed to Prof. Dr. Michelle Frei, [email protected] , (no applications).

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.