PhD Position in Chemical Toxicology

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Laboratory of Toxicology, led by Professor Shana Sturla, is part of the ETH Department of Health Science & Technology and the Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health. Broad research objectives of the group are to promote food and drug safety by elucidating mechanisms of toxicity. Researchers work to define relationships between chemical structures, molecular initiating and key events, and resulting cellular responses. More information about the research group can be found here .

Job description

A doctoral project opportunity is available that will focus on the toxicity of emerging food contaminants, their mixtures, and gut microbial biotransformation products. The research will involve implementing various experimental methods at the interface of microbiology and toxicology. A focus is on techniques that contribute to reducing a reliance on animal testing in toxicology. Further, the contribution will be to highly interdisciplinary collaborative research that further interfaces with analytical chemistry and computational modeling.

Your profile

• You have, or expect to obtain, an MSc or equivalent in toxicology, chemistry, biochemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, food science, microbiology, or a closely related discipline. 
• You have good written and oral communication skills in English 
• You have an independent mindset, leadership qualities and enjoy working in an interdisciplinary team
• You have a strong foundation of practical experience involving (bio)chemistry, molecular or cell biology.
• Students who excel in quantitative aspects of toxicology/chemistry/biology, microbial metabolism or related topics are particularly encouraged to apply.

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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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:

• a cover letter that describes research experience, and scientific and professional/career goals, and indicates an ideal starting date for the applicant
• academic transcripts/list of courses completed or ongoing, including grades/notes
• the CV including contact information for 3 referees.  Do not include letters of recommendation with the application—these may be requested later.

Further information about the Laboratory of Toxicology can be found on our website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Georg Aichinger: [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.