PhD student position in development of protocols isolation of microbial strains sustain

Overview

PhD student position in development of protocols for isolation of microbial strains for sustainable protein production. ETH Zürich is known for excellent education, groundbreaking fundamental research and translating results into practice. We develop technologies to exploit whole cell and enzyme catalysts for manufacturing substances for applications in sustainable chemistry, innovative food, or active pharmaceutical ingredients.

For a third-party funded project in the sector of innovative, non-agricultural food aiming at microbial manufacturing of proteins from reactive gases, we are offering a position for a PhD student.

The project is embedded into the EC-sponsored Hydro Cow consortium with partners from the UK, Germany, and Finland covering competences in metabolic flux modelling, molecular engineering, manufacturing and marketing. We are building on an ultra-high-throughput screening platform that enables rapid identification of improved industrial production strains. At the heart of this platform are microcolonies grown in gel capsules, subjected to fluorescence-based analysis for quantification of the product of interest.

This technology will now be adopted for secretion of recombinantly synthesized proteins for the first time.

• Development of high-throughput assays, typically based on fluorescence mediated by biosensors or (bio) chemicals
• Characterization of assay performance using lead strains
• Execution of large-scale screening campaigns with up to 1E6 variant strains
• Co-representation and reporting of BPL results in consortium meetings
• Co-coordination of tasks with all consortium partners

• Master in molecular biology, microbiology or industrial biotechnology
• Good communication (in English) and teamwork skills
• Additional qualifications (one or more):
• A solid background in chemistry and spectrometric analyses
• Development of protocols from scratch (not just implementing commercial kits)
• Experience working under atmosphere control (e.g., glove boxes)
• Prompt availability and commencement of employment is advantageous

• An intellectually challenging position in an interdisciplinary team
• Multifaceted, applied work in an international environment with academia and industry
• Development of technologies and protocols with potential commercial applications
• Development of personal skills including writing, presentation and project management
• Opportunity to work with and supervise students
• Participation in international conferences and project workshops

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 staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Sustainability is a core value for us—we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

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

• Letter (max. 1 A4) describing your background, interest and motivation
• CV

Further information about BPL and D-BSSE can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed by email to Martin.

Heldz.ch (no applications).

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

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing 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, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

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PhD student position in development of protocols for isolation of microbial strains for sustainable protein production