Postdoctoral Researcher – Experimental Microbial Population Biology

Postdoctoral Researcher – Experimental Microbial Population Biology

The Theoretical Biology Group at the Institute of Integrative Biology, ETH Zurich, is inviting applications for a postdoctoral position in experimental microbial population biology. The position is co-supervised by Professors Sebastian Bonhoeffer and Roland Regoes, with an expected start in fall 2025 or later.

Project Background

The joint group of Profs. Bonhoeffer and Regoes works on infectious disease dynamics, employing a broad range of mathematical, computational, and experimental approaches to study the population dynamics and evolution of infectious pathogens at both the within-host and between-host levels (1, 2, 3, 4, 5). The group utilizes a robotic liquid handling platform to investigate questions such as:

• The evolution of resistance in response to antibiotic treatment under clinically relevant epidemiological settings
• The genomic fingerprints of population structure on evolving bacteriophages

The successful applicant will participate in these ongoing projects and develop new projects utilizing the existing infrastructure to address fundamental problems in microbial population biology.

In addition to contributing to existing projects, you will be responsible for developing your own research agenda within the broader field of infectious disease dynamics, in discussion with Profs. Bonhoeffer and Regoes. You will conduct your research with a high degree of scientific independence and gain relevant experience to apply for independent group leader positions. The role may also include co-supervision of Master’s or PhD students and participation in teaching activities.

Profile

• Doctoral degree in biology or related fields
• Proven academic track record in microbiology and/or experimental evolution
• Extensive experience in experimental genetics involving bacteria, bacteriophages, or plasmids
• High level of scientific independence
• Excellent writing and communication skills
• Proactive and pragmatic problem-solving attitude

Workplace

We Offer

• The opportunity to make an impact: Join ETH Zurich, which supports your professional development and contributes positively to society.

ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture, values diversity, and fosters an environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity webpage to learn more about our commitment to a fair and open environment.

Application Process

We look forward to receiving your online application by June 2, 2025, including:

• An application letter describing your background, past work, and motivation for this position
• Your CV
• A list of your publications

Please note that applications must be submitted through our online portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Further information about our group can be found on our website. For questions regarding the position, contact Rita Jenny at rita.jenny@env.ethz.ch.

ETH Zurich is a leading university in science and technology, renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and societal impact. With over 30,000 staff and students from more than 120 countries, ETH Zurich fosters independent thinking and innovation to address global challenges.