PhD Position in Microbiology

We are seeking a PhD student for an interdisciplinary project that integrates genome-wide sequencing approaches, metabolomics, and microbiology.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the leading cause of mortality in cystic fibrosis patients and the fifth deadliest cause of bacterial infections, thrives as a bacterial pathogen due to its high adaptability and complex transcriptional regulatory networks. Despite its critical role, this regulatory network is still mostly uncharacterized and in most cases we do not know which molecular signals drive the adaptation of P. aeruginosa to the host environement and enable infections.

The goal of this project is to identify key molecular interactions driving the establishment of infections in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. To that aim, the PhD student will apply our recently-developed set of high-throughput methods for the characterization of its regulatory network and of the molecular signals that are enabling infections. This will be done with a focus on transcription factors and their interactions with DNA and signaling molecules using methods including ChIP-seq, DAP-seq and metabolomics.

Essential:

• A Master's degree in Biology
• Basic laboratory experience with molecular biology
• Excellent communication skills in English

Desirable:

• Experience with in vitro protein assays
• Programming skills in Python

Key personal characteristics:

• Commitment to actively participate and promote a positive lab environment
• Willingness to participate in interdisciplinary collaboration

Our lab will start at the Institute of Molecular Systems Biology (IMSB) at ETH Zürich in January 2025. Our research involves developing high-throughput genome-wide methods to study transcription factors in new ways. The overarching goal is to characterize how transcription factors drive decision-making in bacterial pathogens and use this knowledge to develop new therapeutic strategies. As a member of IMSB, you will be part of a dynamic team that leverages state-of-the-art facilities, fosters a collaborative atmosphere, and encourages professional growth.

With this project, you will have:

• Direct access to state-of-the-art sequencers and mass spectrometers
• Ability to work on high-impact research topics
• Possibility to participate in interdisciplinary conferences
• Training in high-throughput sequencing assays and metabolomics

The starting date is flexible for the beginning of 2025, expected duration of PhD is 4 years.

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

• Motivation letter, including a description of specific interests for this position and of previous research experiences
• Curiculum vitae
• Academic transcripts
• Contact information of 2-3 references

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

Further information about the Institute of Molecular Systems Biology can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Julian Trouillon, email trouillon@imsb.biol.ethz.ch (no applications).