Postdoctoral Research Fellow; Zuercher Lab - Generative Biology Institute Generative Biology

Postdoctoral Researcher – Zuercher Lab

We seek ambitious, creative, and highly skilled Postdoctoral Researchers to join the Zuercher Lab at the Generative Biology Institute (GBI). The lab, led by Principal Investigator Jerome Zuercher, focuses on genome synthesis and genetic isolation.

The lab develops altered genetic codes to increase biosafety and rewrites complex biological systems with synthetic genetic codes. It also aims to accelerate genome synthesis of model and non‑model organisms, leveraging AI‑driven design to enable large‑scale bioproduction and other applications.

• Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments, including developing novel methodologies and adapting existing techniques.
• Analyse complex datasets using computational and statistical tools, interpreting results in the context of broader research goals.
• Contribute intellectually to the research direction by identifying opportunities for innovation and refining research questions.
• Prepare and publish high‑quality scientific papers, reports, presentations, and protocols.
• Present research at national and international conferences, seminars, and internal meetings.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams within GBI, EIT, and external partners.
• Build and maintain research infrastructure and laboratory capabilities.
• Mentor and support junior researchers, including PhD students and research assistants.
• Translate research findings into commercial or translational opportunities aligned with EIT’s mission.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for intellectual property generation and protection.
• Ensure compliance with EIT’s policies, legal requirements, and best scientific practice.

• Completed a PhD in a relevant field (synthetic biology, computational biology, AI, genomics, robotics, automation, nucleic acids chemistry, or related fields).
• Track record of delivering high‑standard research projects and publishing in high‑impact journals.
• Strong background in molecular or synthetic biology.
• Skilled in data analysis and interpretation; experience with genomic analysis or automation desirable.
• Proven ability to work independently, think creatively, and solve complex experimental problems.
• Experience presenting at international conferences.
• Excellent organisational and project‑management skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and experience collaborating in multidisciplinary teams.
• Capacity to build and sustain productive collaborations internally and externally.
• Resilience, adaptability, and enthusiasm for a fast‑paced, high‑growth research environment.

• Competitive salary, travel allowance, and bonus.
• Enhanced holiday pay.
• Pension.
• Life assurance and income protection.
• Private medical insurance and hospital cash plan.
• Therapy services.
• Perk box.
• Electric car scheme.

• Eligible to work in the UK and willing to travel as necessary. The UK Home Office may sponsor employment visas, though sponsorship availability may vary.