PhD Position in Toxicology

PhD Position in Toxicology
100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Laboratory of Toxicology is looking for a PhD student in Toxicology with a focus on elucidating the role of chemical bioactivation via gut microbial biotransformation for human health.

Our Laboratory is part of the ETH Department of Health Sciences & Technology. We strive to understand biochemical and cellular mechanisms governing bioactive properties of chemicals, in order to promote human health and chemical and drug safety. Researchers develop and apply quantitative chemical, in vitro, and computational approaches to address problems in Toxicology.

More information about the research group can be found at the Laboratory of Toxicology

Project background

An opportunity is available that will focus on elucidating the role of the gut microbiome as a site of chemical biotransformation and impacts on host responses. The work will involve aspects of microbiology, chemical bioanalysis, bioinformatics, and in vitro toxicology to advance animal-free next generation hazard assessment.

Job description

A focus of this PhD position will be on quantifying microbial biotransformation products and evaluating their potential human toxicological effects. Correspondingly, it combines wet lab and computational analysis. The successful candidate will be co-mentored by Dr. Georg Aichinger, who leads the group in predictive toxicokinetics, and Prof. Shana Sturla, the head of laboratory.

Profile

A successful applicant will have, or expect to obtain before starting, an MSc or equivalent in Chemistry, Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Food Science, Microbiology, or a closely related discipline. Good written and oral communication skills in English are needed. The individual should have a self-dependent mindset, good leadership qualities, and a strong foundation of practical relevant laboratory experience. Bioinformatics skills are beneficial, but can be expanded during the PhD. Students who excel in microbial metabolism research, quantitative aspects of toxicology, or related topics are particularly encouraged to apply.

Workplace
Workplace
We offer

• Fully funded PhD within a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative research community that values innovation.
• Extensive training in toxicological and interdisciplinary research with latest methodologies.
• Dedicated supervision and mentorship for academic and professional growth throughout your doctoral journey.
• Opportunities to develop projects aligned with your interests and build leadership skills, such as by mentoring student researchers.
• Opportunities to attend conferences and enhance skills to prepare you for your future career.

We value diversity and sustainability

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:

• a cover letter that describes research experience, and scientific and professional/career goals, and indicates an ideal starting date for the applicant.
• academic transcripts/list of courses completed or ongoing, including grades/notes.
• the CV including contact information for 3 referees. Do not include letters of recommendation with the application—these may be requested later.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. The project start date is as soon as possible and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Further information about the ETH Laboratory of Toxicology can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Georg Aichinger, (no applications).

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

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