Post-Doc Position in Plant Biochemistry

Applications are invited for a Post-Doctoral position in the Plant Biochemistry group (Laboratory of Prof. Samuel C. Zeeman) in the Institute of Molecular Plant Biology (Department of Biology), ETH Zurich.

The Laboratory of Plant Biochemistry studies the pathways of carbohydrate metabolism and the molecular mechanisms that plants use to control them. Our research focuses on starch biosynthesis - an important and active field since starch is the key storage carbohydrate of plants and forms the basis of human and animal nutrition. Having identified a suite of novel proteins involved in localizing and coordinating the enzymes of starch biosynthesis, we are investigating the cell biological aspects of this vital process. Examples of our research in this field can be found here.

The successful applicant, who will work in the team led by Prof. Samuel C. Zeeman, will be involved in research to understand how plants are able to make the carbohydrate polymers that comprise starch and how they are able to adopt a complex, semi-crystalline state. This research will require a combination of complementary tools: molecular genetics in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, advanced microscopic and cell biological methods, and in-vitro/in-vivo biochemistry. The successful applicant will be embedded within an interactive institute located in the city-center Campus of ETH Zurich, a world-leading institution in basic and applied research. We provide access to state-of-the-art facilities for microscopy (ScopeM), proteomics and nucleotide sequence analysis (FGCZ, GDC) in-house metabolomics, and plant growth.

The position is available from autumn on or as per mutual agreement.

Applicants should hold a PhD degree with a strong background in biology/biochemistry and an interest in plant sciences. Experience in molecular biology and protein biochemistry is required, together with a strong motivation to learn and develop new techniques and methods. Experience in any of the following would also be advantageous: bioinformatics, fluorescence/electron microscopy for plant cell imaging, metabolomic and proteomic analyses.

Candidates should be excited about science and be motivated to perform research of the highest quality. They should be highly organized and capable of working both independently and within the team. Post-doctoral scientists at ETH Zurich contribute a modest fraction of their time to undergraduate teaching, principally through the supervision of undergraduate practical courses and masters projects. Candidates should have good interpersonal and communication skills. Fluency in English is essential (both spoken and written). ETH Zurich is an Equal Opportunities employer and provides provides career development opportunities to post-docs.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing 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.