Urinary tract infections affect more than 150 million individuals annually, with treatment dominated by empirical choices of broad-spectrum antibiotics. The ability to rapidly identify uropathogens and to initiate targeted therapies would massively improve quality of life, as well as ameliorate the antimicrobial resistance crisis. Bacterial metabolites in urine may generate valuable information on pathogen identity, and understanding the links between metabolism and risk for progressive disease requires fundamental progress in our understanding of strain- and species-specific metabolism of uropathogens.

We offer a three-year fully funded postdoctoral position embedded within the Mucosal Immunology lab headed by Prof. Emma Slack at ETH Zürich (Hönggerberg Campus). You will work as part of a collaborative project together with scientists and engineers in the groups of Prof. Adrian Egli (Medical Microbiology, Zurich University Hospital), Prof. Andreas Güntner (Human-centered sensing laboratory, D-MAVT, ETH Zurich), Prof. Catherine Jutzeler (Biomedical Data Science, D-HEST, ETH Zurich) and Prof. Thomas Kessler (Urology, Balgrist Hospital Zurich).

The project will study the links between bacterial species and strain-level metabolic capacity, patient phenotype, and urine volatile metabolome. Rational combinations of molecules that are informative for identifying pathogen species and risks will be shared with our collaborating groups for targeted nanosensor design and device engineering to produce novel, rapid UTI diagnostics.

We are looking for a candidate who is motivated to precisely understand complex biological systems through fundamental research, who is passionate about driving and performing research in an interdisciplinary team, and who can work independently. Experience in at least two of the following areas is required:

• Bacterial molecular metabolism
• Host-pathogen interactions from a metabolic perspective
• Advanced mass spectrometry of small molecules

Additional scientific research and project management experience will also be considered highly beneficial.

The ETH and our collaborator groups offer a dynamic research environment with a strong microbiology, mass spectrometry, and metabolism network. You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and will be embedded within a team of experts in the development of mass spectrometry techniques in the Mucosal Immunology group, providing excellent conditions for rapid scientific advancement.

The Mucosal Immunology group offers regular group and 1-1 meetings, training and mentoring on the skills required for  scientific independence, and a strong ethical framework for responsible conduct research. You will have the possibility to lead your research project with a high degree of autonomy and contribute to collaborative research projects in and outside the team.

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 with the following documents:

• Comprehensive CV
• Cover letter explaining your motivation for applying and your research ideas in the field of bacterial metabolism
• Degree certificates and transcripts (if available)
• Contact details of at least two people willing to give references for you

The position will be available to start from April 1st 2025.

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 the Mucosal Immunology group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Emma Slack, emma.slack@hest.ethz.ch (no applications).

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.