Post-Doctoral Research in Comparative Fungal Genomics and Transposon Diversity

The Plant Disease Dynamics group at ETH Zürich invites applications for a post-doctoral research position in comparative fungal genomics and transposon diversity. This role is ideal for a fungal genome biologist interested in how transposons shape the structure and function of plant pathogen genomes. The research focuses on the diversity and evolution of Starship transposons and their associated genes within plant-infecting fungal species, particularly those carrying the ToxA virulence gene nested inside the ToxTA transposon. The project aims to unravel the evolutionary history and horizontal transfer mechanisms of ToxTA across various fungal species, leveraging over 300 publicly accessible genomes and several dozen long-read assemblies from the lab's internal collection. The successful candidate will generate new long-read Nanopore assemblies, assemble and annotate existing genome assemblies, mine public genomes for transposable elements, and establish reproducible Snakemake/Nextflow pipelines. Responsibilities also include managing genomic data resources, supervising and mentoring PhD and Masters students, assisting in teaching, publishing peer-reviewed manuscripts, and applying for funding to develop research independence. The position is part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team and offers integration into a global plant pathology research network. Applicants must have a PhD in comparative genomics or transposon biology (preferably with fungal or eukaryotic experience), a strong publication record, experience with large DNA datasets, and a commitment to reproducibility in bioinformatics. The group values diversity, inclusion, and sustainability, offering a supportive environment with flexible working hours and access to state-of-the-art facilities. The initial contract is for two years, with the possibility of extension, and includes core budgetary support for consumables and IT infrastructure. To apply, submit your application online via the ETH Zurich portal, including a motivation letter, a 500-word statement on independent research interests, CV, code repository website, and at least two reference letters. For questions about the position, contact Prof. Megan McDonald at [email protected] (no applications via email). Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, starting at the end of April.