PhD Position in Chemical Biology

The research group for Chemical Biology and Molecular Imaging (Frei Research Group) at ETH Zurich is looking for a doctoral researcher to develop chemistry inspired tools for advanced fluorescence microscopy and then use the tools to study dynamic cellular processes. The position is fully funded.

Research in the Frei Research Group focuses on the development of novel chemigenetic tools such as fluorescent biosensors and perturbation tools. We implement these technologies with cutting edge fluorescence microscopy techniques including super-resolution microscopy and fluorescence lifetime imaging to investigate cell signaling and metabolism.

The position focuses on the development of chemigenetic tools that combine synthetic fluorophores with genetically encodable components like self-labeling protein tags for application in cell biology. The work is highly interdisciplinary and collaborative, involving synthetic chemistry and/or protein engineering as well as cell biology and fluorescence microscopy. The position is available from Fall 2025 onwards or earlier upon agreement.

We are looking for someone with:

• A MSc degree in Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry or a closely related discipline
• Strong communication skills and proficiency of the English language
• Strong motivation and curiosity for research in Chemical Biology
• Motivation to work in a multidisciplinary and multicultural environment
• Prior experience in at least one of the following: synthetic chemistry, fluorophore chemistry, molecular biology, protein engineering, cell biology or fluorescence microscopy.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions and offers highly competitive salaries.

Moreover, our research group offers:

• An open and collaborative research environment
• Access to and training in cutting-edge methodologies and instrumentation (e.g. ScopeM)
• Career development under direct mentorship

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich