PhD Candidate in Molecular Biology & Biophysics

PhD Position in Molecular Biology & Biophysics - Hospenthal Group

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Hospenthal Group at the Institute of Molecular Biology & Biophysics (IMBB) at ETH Zurich, Switzerland, investigates the molecular mechanisms that govern natural transformation in bacteria—an important mode of horizontal gene transfer. We use complementary approaches, including cryo-EM, biophysical methods, and in vivo functional assays, to study the protein machineries involved in this process.

Join our young, ambitious, and international research team. The Hospenthal Group has access to state-of-the-art light and electron microscopy instrumentation, including FEI Vitrobots and related grid preparation facilities, as well as three Titan Krios microscopes, all maintained at ETH Zurich’s imaging facility, ScopeM. We also have readily available computational resources and biophysical instruments necessary for analyzing protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions.

Job Description

We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated PhD candidate to investigate how DNA is translocated from the extracellular environment into the bacterial cytoplasm, where it is incorporated into the genome. In this position, you will:

• Express and purify proteins
• Conduct quantitative binding experiments (protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions)
• Produce stable complexes between proteins and/or DNA
• Determine structures of proteins/complexes
• Design mutants and perturbations for in vivo experiments
• Perform in vivo functional assays (e.g., microbiological approaches, fluorescence microscopy)

The start date is as soon as possible, but no later than January 2026. Further project details will be discussed during the interview.

Profile

• MSc Degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, or a related field.
• Motivation to tackle complex and interesting mechanistic questions.
• Research interest in horizontal gene transfer, natural transformation, membrane proteins, and DNA transporters.
• Experience with protein expression and purification.
• Experience with the following is beneficial:
• Quantitative biophysical methods (e.g., fluorescence anisotropy, ITC, SPR).
• Cryo-EM (sample/grid preparation, data acquisition, data processing, model building, and interpretation).
• The ability to write scientific papers and actively participate in internal meetings and international conferences requires a good command of English.
• Able to work independently, as well as contribute to a collaborative lab culture.

Workplace

Your workplace will be on the ETH Campus at Hönggerberg in Zurich. We offer a stimulating role in a vibrant group exploring the molecular mechanisms underpinning bacterial evolution and resistance. This fully-funded, full-time position, combined with ETH's excellent working conditions, makes the role especially appealing.

• Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which supports your professional development and actively contributes to positive change in society.
• 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.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

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. Sustainability is a core value for us; we consistently work toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below.

Evaluation of applications will start immediately and will continue until a suitable candidate has been identified. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For additional information, please contact Prof. Dr. Manuela Hospenthal via email at manuela.hospenthal@mol.biol.ethz.ch (no application documents).

About ETH Zurich

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 a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections worldwide, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.