PhD Student Position in Stomatal Immunity and Metabolism

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Plant Molecular Physiology lab at ETH Zurich is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join our research team on a project about stomatal immunity and metabolism. Stomata are tiny pores on the leaf surface that regulate gas exchange and plant productivity, but also serve as natural entry points for plant and human pathogens. While stomata close rapidly in response to microbial signals, the metabolic mechanisms enabling this response remain poorly understood. This project aims to uncover how immune signalling reprograms metabolism in guard cells to drive stomatal closure and restrict pathogen entry.

Job description

Research focus:

• Molecular genetics in Arabidopsis to dissect key signaling components linking immune perception to metabolic regulation
• Phosphoproteomics and targeted metabolite analysis to identify metabolic switches activated during microbial exposure
• Comparative genome editing experiments in lettuce to translate mechanistic insights from Arabidopsis into an agriculturally relevant crop system

The student will investigate how microbial elicitors trigger specific metabolic adjustments in guard cells, how these changes influence ion fluxes and osmotic regulation, and how pathogens may circumvent this barrier. The project integrates cell biology, biochemistry, plant immunity, and translational crop research.

The long-term goal is to identify metabolic control points that can be leveraged to strengthen natural plant defenses and reduce pathogen entry into leafy vegetables, contributing to sustainable agriculture and improved food safety.

Profile

Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Plant Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field
• Strong interest in plant molecular mechanisms and cellular regulation
• Experience with molecular biology techniques and/or plant genetics
• Motivation to work independently while contributing to a collaborative research environment
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Experience in Arabidopsis, microscopy, or omics approaches is an advantage but not required

Responsibilities:

• Conduct independent research under the supervision of senior researchers
• Design and perform experiments, analyse data, and interpret results
• Prepare and present research findings at scientific conferences and in peer-reviewed journals
• Collaborate with other team members and contribute to the overall research goals

Workplace

Zurich

We offer

• A dynamic and supportive research environment
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities at ETH Zurich
• Training in advanced molecular, biochemical, and imaging approaches
• Integration into a vibrant international plant science community
• The opportunity to contribute to research with tangible societal impact in sustainable agriculture and food safety

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. 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. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Motivation letter
• CV
• Academic transcripts
• At least 2 reference letters

Further information about the Plant Molecular Physiology lab can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Diana Santelia by email: dsantelia@ethz.ch (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.