Agroscope, 80-100%, 1260 Nyon
Responsibilities
* Conducting research for the 'NoctuVir' project on the use of entomopathogenic baculoviruses to control owlet moths
* Developing and testing existing/innovative formulations to improve baculovirus application and efficacy
* Identifying and characterising new baculoviruses of interest, with emphasis on their molecular characterisation (genome, diversity, genetic signatures associated with virulence and host) and biological characterisation (virulence, infection kinetics, host range, mortality parameters) using laboratory, microscopy and high-throughput sequencing diagnostics
* Conducting tunnel trials and evaluating the efficacy of viral solutions in an operational environment
* Collaborating closely with project partners (industry, research institutes, vegetable production sector) and contributing to the development of sustainable control strategies
* Publishing results in international journals and presenting at conferences; contributing to third-party and internal projects and promoting them among practitioners
Qualifications
* Knowledge of and experience with baculoviruses and/or entomopathogenic viruses
* Doctorate and/or equivalent research experience in entomology, virology and plant protection
* Experience in insect breeding, bioassays and working with biocontrol agents; specific experience with baculoviruses, molecular characterisation of viruses and/or formulations would be a major asset
* Good knowledge of molecular biology, ideally supplemented by experience in high-throughput sequencing
* Good experimental design skills (laboratory, tunnel, open air)
* Knowledge of two official Swiss languages and English
About the Company
Agroscope is the Swiss federal centre of excellence for research in the agriculture and food sector. Its researchers work at a number of sites in Switzerland. Headquartered in Bern-Liebefeld (as of 2026: Posieux), Agroscope is attached to the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER.
In a nutshell: Motivated, independent, rigorous individual who values working as part of a multidisciplinary team and external collaborations. The candidate must supervise and support students or interns and technical staff involved in the project.
Benefits
Working for Switzerland: We are committed to the successful Swiss model and work for the public good.
Embracing diversity: Thanks to equal opportunities, we draw on our expertise and contribute different perspectives.
Staying healthy at work: We support and advise our employees in the area of physical and mental health.
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