Applications are invited for a Research Assistant position available in the Plant Biochemistry group in the Institute of Molecular Plant Biology (Department of Biology), ETH Zurich.
The on-going project investigates starch biosynthesis in the important crop plant, cassava (Manihot esculenta). The starch-rich storage roots of cassava serve as a vital source of nutrition for approximately 1 billion people, particularly in Africa, as well as a renewable raw material for local and global value chains. The overall aims are to use fundamental knowledge about starch biosynthesis in model systems, other starch crops, and in cassava itself, and devise strategies for cassava improvement (e.g. via genome editing). The Research Assistant will be integrated into the international Cassava Source-Sink (CASS) research consortium.
Job descriptionThis position requires a sound knowledge of plant biology and broad range of laboratory skills, encompassing molecular biology and genetics, plant tissue culture, Agrobacterium -mediated transformation, and biochemistry. Experience with protein purification and light/fluorescence microscopy would be advantageous. You will be expected to contribute to the practical supervision of undergraduate and Master's students through assisting in laboratory courses and semester projects. As a Research Assistant, you will be expected to plan and conduct experiments, analyze data, help prepare manuscripts and present findings at internal and external meetings. The position is based in the IMPB laboratories on the Hönggerberg campus of ETH Zurich, with some activities also at the Research Station for Plant Sciences in Lindau/Eschikon. Periodically, there will be visits to other groups within the CASS consortium.
The position is available from January 2026 and is fixed-term (3 years).
Profile - Applicants should hold a PhD degree in plant sciences or have equivalent experience.
- You should be highly organized and capable of working both independently and considerately within the team.
- Experience in plant tissue culture and molecular biology techniques is essential. Candidates should also have good interpersonal and communication skills.
- Fluency in both spoken and written English is required. German language skills would be advantageous.
- A valid driving license is required.
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