PhD Position in Health Sciences

ETH Zurich – Department of Health Sciences & Technology, Zurich (Fixed-term)

About the Laboratory

The Laboratory of Toxicology at ETH Zurich is seeking a PhD student in Toxicology to focus on elucidating the role of chemical bioactivation via gut microbial biotransformation and its impact on human health.

Our laboratory is part of the ETH Department of Health Sciences & Technology. We aim to understand the biochemical and cellular mechanisms governing the bioactive properties of chemicals to promote human health and chemical and drug safety. Researchers in our group develop and apply quantitative chemical, in vitro, and computational approaches to address key problems in toxicology.

More information about the research group can be found on the Laboratory of Toxicology website.

Project Background

This PhD project will focus on elucidating the gut microbiome’s role as a site of chemical biotransformation and its effects on host responses. The research involves microbiology, chemical bioanalysis, bioinformatics, and in vitro toxicology, advancing animal-free next-generation hazard assessment.

Job Description

The project will emphasize:

• Quantifying microbial biotransformation products

• Evaluating their toxicological effects on human health

The work combines wet-lab experiments with computational analyses.

The successful candidate will be co-mentored by Dr. Georg Aichinger (Predictive Toxicokinetics Group) and Prof. Shana Sturla (Head of Laboratory).

Profile

Applicants should have, or expect to obtain before starting, an MSc or equivalent degree in one of the following fields:

• Chemistry

• Toxicology

• Pharmaceutical Sciences

• Food Science

• Microbiology

• Or a closely related discipline

Required skills and attributes:

• Good written and oral communication skills in English

• A self-dependent and motivated mindset

• Strong laboratory experience relevant to toxicology

• Leadership potential and willingness to mentor junior students

Desirable (but not required):

• Experience or interest in bioinformatics, microbial metabolism, or quantitative toxicology

We Offer

• A fully funded PhD within a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative research community that values innovation

• Extensive training in toxicological and interdisciplinary research using the latest methodologies

• Dedicated supervision and mentorship for academic and professional growth

• Opportunities to develop individual projects aligned with personal research interests

• Chances to mentor student researchers and attend international conferences

• Support to develop leadership skills and prepare for your future career

Working, Teaching and Research at ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich values diversity, inclusion, and sustainability. We promote equality of opportunity, respect the rights and dignity of all staff and students, and work towards a climate-neutral future.
Learn more on our Equal Opportunities and Diversity page.

Application Instructions

We look forward to receiving your online application, which must include:

1. Cover letter describing research experience, scientific and career goals, and preferred start date

2. Academic transcripts (including grades and list of completed or ongoing courses)

3. Curriculum Vitae (CV) including contact information for three referees

Note: Do not include letters of recommendation with your initial application; these may be requested later.

Please submit your application exclusively through the ETH online application portal.
Applications sent via email or postal mail will not be considered.

The start date is as soon as possible, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Contact

For inquiries about the position, please contact:
Dr. Georg Aichinger
???? georg.aichinger@hest.ethz.ch
(Please note: no applications by email.)

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities in science and technology, renowned for excellence in education, fundamental research, and the transfer of knowledge into society.

With more than 30,000 people from over 120 countries, ETH fosters a culture of independent thinking, collaboration, and innovation, developing solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.