PhD position in Molecular Pharmacology

Updated: 29 days ago
Job Type: Permanent

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Molecular Pharmacology group is a multidisciplinary research team at ETH Zurich, which spans the whole spectrum of pharmacological research from in vitro to in vivo studies and to clinical applications. A major research topic of our group is focused on the identification and characterization of novel drug targets for the development of new treatments of prevailing cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, ischemic cardiovascular diseases, and heart failure. Our group has great expertise in signal transduction of G-protein-coupled receptors, which are the most frequently used drug targets. We recently identified several novel targets involved in the pathogenesis of aging-induced cardiac dysfunction, and in the cardiac degeneration caused by Tetralogy of Fallot.


Project background

More information on our current research projects can be found in our recent publications:


Job description

This doctoral position is focused on drug target identification and characterization in the area of cardiovascular pharmacology. The project applies state-of-the-art techniques of in vivo and in vitro pharmacology including molecular biology and gene technology, cell biology, and biochemistry techniques. In vitro research with purified recombinant proteins and cell-based assays are complemented by in vivo studies with transgenic mouse models of cardiovascular diseases, which were established by our group. The project also develops and applies biophysical methods with fluorescent protein-based sensors for structural and functional studies of novel proteins and their interacting partners.
More information on our research activities can be found here .

The PhD position encompasses research work, and presentation of scientific data in frame of group meetings and at international conferences. In addition, the PhD position is associated with teaching duties in lab courses, and with co-supervision of student research projects and master theses.


Your profile

Requirements for this PhD position are:

  • A strong background in medical sciences
  • Good knowledge of in vitro and in vivo pharmacology
  • Fluency in scientific English writing and communication
  • Strong social competencies including integrity in your activities, respect in the workplace, and open-mindedness to new ideas
  • An excellent bachelor’s and master’s degree (or equivalent) in pharmacology, medicine, pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, biochemistry, chemistry, biology, physics, or in a related field


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 applications with the following documents:

  • A motivation letter (no more than 2 pages) that demonstrates your interest and suitability for the offered position
  • A full CV
  • University transcripts of records (Bachelor and Master)
  • Copies of Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees
  • Names and contact information of two references

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

Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis. The position is available as long as this job advertisement is online, and the job ad will be deactivated when the position has been filled. We are looking to fill the position as soon as possible with a start date in Spring 2024.

Questions about the position should be directed to Prof. Dr. Ursula Quitterer via email ([email protected] ). Please do not send applications via email.


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.



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