Student Assistant Prenatal Genetics Project

Student Assistant for Prenatal Genetics Project 10%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Health Ethics & Policy Lab is conducting a SNSF-funded project on the ethics of prenatal genetic testing. As part of this project, we are conducting interview studies with pregnant patients and families with a rare disease diagnosis to understand their views and experiences with prenatal genetic testing.

We are looking for a Research Assistant with French, Italian, and English proficiency to conduct and process interviews with study participants during the academic year  (primarily during the Autumn semester, though there may be some remaining work in the early part of the Spring semester). We anticipate this job will require approximately 120-150 work hours in total.

Our lab will provide the training necessary to be successful in this position, although prior experience with semi-structured interviewing is a plus.

Tasks may include:

• Conducting research interviews with participants in French and/or Italian.
• Accuracy checking and data cleaning of interview transcripts in the language they are conducted in.
• Reviewing English translations of interview transcripts for accuracy.
• Administrative tasks supporting participant recruitment and data collection, including scheduling and coordinating interviews with other team members.
• The Research Assistant may also support additional aspects of this project based on interest, time and needs.

Required

• Excellent oral and written communication skills in French and/or Italian (C1+, preferably mother tongue). Preference will be given to candidates who are fluent in both languages.
• Strong oral and written communication skills in English (B2+).
• Ability to discuss sensitive topics in a caring and empathic manner.
• Ability to work independently, reliably, and accurately.

Desirable

• Prior experience or familiarity with interviewing and qualitative methodologies.
• Interest in bioethics, including genetics and reproductive ethics.

This is an hourly position, and salary will be based on the work hours completed. Hybrid work is possible and work times are flexible. This position will provide valuable research experience and the opportunity to learn about the field of bioethics. You will primarily work with a doctoral student and the project co-PI. If you are interested in other aspects of work in our lab, you will be welcome to attend various presentations and journal clubs.

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.

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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.