PhD student position in development of protocols for isolation of microbial strains for sustainable protein production
We develop technologies to exploit whole cell and enzyme catalysts for manufacturing of substances for applications in fields such as 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.
Project background
The project is embedded into the EC‑sponsored consortium HydroCow with partners from the UK, Germany and Finland covering competences in metabolic flux modelling, molecular engineering, manufacturing and marketing.
For HydroCow, we are building on an earlier developed ultra‑high‑throughput screening platform that allows for the rapid identifying of improved industrial production strains. At the heart of this platform are microcolonies grown in gel‑capsules, which are subjected to fluorescence‑based analysis for quantification of the product of interest. This technology will now be adopted for secretion recombinantly synthesized proteins for the first time.
The PhD‑Student will perform the following tasks:
* 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
Profile
* Master in molecular biology, microbiology or industrial biotechnology
* Good communication (in English) and teamwork skills
* We are also looking for all or a subset of the following additional qualifications:
o A solid background in chemistry and spectrometric analyses
o Development protocols from scratch (as opposed to implementing commercial kits)
o Working under atmosphere control (e.g., glove boxes)
* Prompt availability and commencement of employment are advantageous
Workplace
We offer
* An intellectually challenging position in the inspiring atmosphere of an interdisciplinary team
* Multifaceted, applied work in a larger international team with academia and industry
* Develop of technologies and protocols that will find commercial applications
* Development of personal skills including writing, presentation and project management
* Possibility to work with and supervise students
* Participation at 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 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. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate‑neutral future.
Curious? So are we.
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.Held@bsse.ethz.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.
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.
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