Postdoctoral Researcher in Bioinformatics

ETH Zürich

Postdoctoral Researcher - Bioinformatics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Clinical Genomics team led by Dr. André Kahles at the Biomedical Informatics Lab (BMI Lab), headed by Prof. Gunnar Rätsch, at ETH Zurich, is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a strong background in sequence bioinformatics, algorithms and data structures. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary effort developing innovative diagnostic technologies based on long-read sequencing and real-time sequence analysis.

Project background

Rapid and accurate identification of bacterial infections remains a major challenge in clinical practice, particularly in emergency settings where delayed diagnosis can lead to suboptimal or delayed treatment and increased mortality in conditions such as sepsis. Current diagnostic methods often require 24–72 hours, which can contribute to the empirical use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Within the RADIANT-Dx consortium, our interdisciplinary team is developing a portable diagnostic platform based on long-read sequencing to enable rapid transcriptomic profiling of host responses and pathogens directly from blood samples. The project integrates experimental and computational expertise to enable real-time sequence analysis and deliver clinically actionable results within hours.

Job description

• You will develop and implement novel computational methods for the analysis of long-read sequencing data, including both pre– and post–base-calling analysis, to support the development of a next-generation diagnostic platform
• You will design algorithms and statistical models for real-time sequence analysis of host and pathogen transcriptomic data, with a focus on robust and scalable approaches for clinical applications
• You will work closely with an interdisciplinary team of bioinformaticians, microbiologists, clinicians, and engineers across ETH Zurich, the University of Zurich, and the University Hospital Zurich
• You will contribute to the integration of bioinformatics methods into a translational research project aimed at enabling rapid and clinically actionable infectious disease diagnostics
• You will lead computational research projects, publish results in leading scientific journals, and contribute to advancing methods in microbial genomics, long-read sequencing analysis, and applied computational biology

Profile

You should have a PhD degree in:

• Computational Biology / Bioinformatics
• Computer Science
• Statistics / Applied Mathematics
• or a related quantitative field

with a strong background in algorithms, data structures, and statistical modeling.

Experience in sequence analysis, microbial genomics, and long-read sequencing data analysis is highly desirable. Familiarity with signal processing or applied machine learning is advantageous. You should demonstrate strong motivation to develop innovative computational methods and to contribute to interdisciplinary research with potential clinical impact, ideally supported by a solid publication record.

Workplace

Zurich

We offer

• Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
• 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

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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 including the following documents:

• Research proposal (ca. 2-3 pages)
• CV
• Cover letter/personal statement including the names of three referees

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

For further information about the BMI Lab please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. André Kahles by email andre.kahles@inf.ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zürich

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.