The Theoretical Biology Group at the Institute of Integrative Biology ETH Zurich is inviting applications for a postdoctoral position in experimental microbial population biology co-supervised by by Professors Sebastian Bonhoeffer and Roland Regoes. The start is envisaged in fall 2025 or later.

The joint group of Profs. Bonhoeffer and Regoes works on infectious disease dynamics using a broad range of mathematical, computational, and experimental approaches to study the population dynamics and evolution of infectious pathogens on both the within and between-host level (1,2,3,4,5). The group uses a robotic liquid handling platform to study questions such as:

• The evolution of resistance in response to antibiotic treatment under clinically relevant epidemiological settings and
• The genomic fingerprints of population structure on evolving bacteriophages.

The applicant would be able to participate in these ongoing projects as well as develop new projects that would utilise the existing infrastructure to study fundamental problems in microbial population biology.

In addition to participating in existing projects you will be responsible for developing your own research agenda in the broader field of infectious disease dynamics in discussion with Profs. Bonhoeffer and Regoes. You will be able to conduct your research with a high level of scientific independence and will gain relevant experience to apply for independent group leader positions. In particular, you can co-supervise Master or PhD students and participate in teaching.

• Doctoral degree in biology or related fields of research
• Proven academic track record in microbiology and/or experimental evolution 
• Extensive experience in experimental work in genetics of bacteria, bacteriophages or plasmids
• High level of scientific independence
• Excellent writing and communication skills
• Proactive, pragmatic attitude towards problem solving

• Your career with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
• We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university
• You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits

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.

We look forward to receiving your online application until June 2, 2025, with the following documents:

• An application letter describing your background and past work and motivating your interest in this particular position
• your CV
• A list of your publications

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
Further information about our group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Rita Jenny ([email protected]).

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