The Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich invites applications for a Bioinformatician embedded in the Microbiome Research Lab. We seek a highly motivated, skilled, and organised individual to support multiple experimental and computational research groups. The successful candidate will contribute to both a collaborative research network and institute-wide activities, including data management and the maintenance of computational infrastructure and software.
Project background
The position is part of the Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich and closely linked to projects within the NCCR Microbiomes. The NCCR Microbiomes is a nationwide, interdisciplinary research programme, bringing together experimental and computational researchers with the aim of understanding and engineering the structure, function, and dynamics of microbiomes across diverse biological and environmental systems.
Several research groups at the Institute of Microbiology contribute to the NCCR Microbiomes. The Bioinformatician will play a central role in supporting collaborative research projects across the network through advanced data analysis, interpretation, and visualisation using reproducible computational workflows. In addition, the position supports institute-wide bioinformatics activities, including the management of data and shared computational infrastructure, enabling efficient and sustainable microbiome research.
Job description
The scope of responsibilities will therefore be adapted to the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate. Key responsibilities include:
- Support and contribute to research projects of PhD students and postdoctoral researchers at the Institute of Microbiology by applying and advising on appropriate bioinformatics, biostatistics, and modelling approaches
- Perform and support the analysis, integration, and visualisation of multi-omics data (e.g., genomics, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and imaging data)
- Collaborate with experimental and computational researchers on study design, data interpretation, and the development of reproducible computational workflows
- Support research data management, including data organisation, storage, documentation, and submission to relevant repositories
- Contribute to the maintenance and further development of shared computational and IT infrastructure in collaboration with the IT Staff and senior bioinformatician
- Support the training of Institute of Microbiology members in bioinformatics and computational biology through individual consultations and the organisation of training sessions (e.g. workshops); more experienced candidates may take a leading role in these activities
- Contribute to the development and maintenance of bioinformatics tools, pipelines, and methods for biological data analysis; experienced candidates are encouraged to initiate and lead method development projects
The position is project-based and initially offered for one year, with the possibility of extension on a yearly basis, depending on project duration and funding.
Profile
We welcome applications from recent MSc graduates as well as candidates with a PhD and/or several years of relevant professional experience in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, or a related field. The successful candidate is expected to have:
- Solid background in bioinformatics and/or computational biology, with experience in the analysis of biological data
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment
- Programming skills in one or more relevant languages (e.g. Python, R, Bash)
- Experience with the analysis of omics data (e.g. genomics, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics); experience with additional data types is an advantage
- Familiarity with Linux-based computing environments; experience with high-performance computing (HPC) systems is an advantage
- Knowledge of reproducible research practices, including workflow management and version control (e.g. Git)
Depending on the level of experience, the candidate may additionally demonstrate:
- Experience in data management and submission to public repositories
- Experience in maintaining bioinformatics pipelines, software environments, or computational infrastructure
- Experience in training or mentoring students and researchers in bioinformatics or computational biology
- Initiative in developing bioinformatics tools, methods, or workflows
- We offerA stimulating research environment at the Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich, one of the world's leading universities in science and technology
- Integration into an internationally visible, interdisciplinary research network, including close interaction with projects within the NCCR Microbiomes
- A collaborative and inclusive working environment with researchers from diverse scientific and cultural backgrounds
- Access to state-of-the-art computational infrastructure and bioinformatics resources
- Opportunities for professional development, skills training, and career advancement, with responsibilities adapted to experience and career stage
- Support for participation in scientific meetings, workshops, and training activities
- Competitive salary and benefits in accordance with ETH Zurich regulations
- Flexible working schedule that accommodates your personal needs
- We foster a culture of collaboration, diversity, and inclusivity in an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported
> Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
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