University of Zurich
10 months ago
This position has expired. You can find similar positions from the section below or browse our positions listing pages.
PhD Position in Host-Pathogen Transcript Profiling and Nanopore RNA Sequencing for Sepsis Diagnostics University of Zurich in Switzerland
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Microbiology
Funding
The post offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment, training in wet-lab and bioinformatics techniques, access to high-performance computing resources, and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge diagnostic technologies. Specific details about stipend, tuition coverage, or funding type are not provided.
Deadline
Expired
Country
Switzerland
University
University of Zurich
Suggested positions
Keywords
About this position
The Institute of Medical Microbiology at the University of Zurich is offering a PhD position focused on profiling host and pathogen transcripts using Nanopore direct RNA sequencing for rapid sepsis diagnostics. The successful candidate will join Dr. Ashley Rooney's research group, which collaborates with Prof. Adrian Egli and partners in Switzerland and internationally. The project aims to develop, validate, and optimize a metatranscriptomic RNA sequencing-based diagnostic tool for sepsis, addressing the urgent need for rapid and accurate identification of bacterial infections in clinical settings.
Research activities will include optimizing sequencing workflows, bioinformatic analysis of host-pathogen interactions, and clinical validation studies. Key methods involve direct RNA sequencing from whole blood using nanopore technology, metatranscriptomic data analysis to identify pathogens and immune responses, and device development for portable diagnostics. The RADIANT-Dx consortium supports the project, aiming to deliver rapid results for treatment decisions and reduce unnecessary broad-spectrum antibiotic use.
Applicants should have a background in Molecular Microbiology, Computational Biology, or related fields, with experience in RNA sequencing, nanopore technology, and bioinformatics analysis considered advantageous. Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills are required, along with motivation for translational medical research. The position offers interdisciplinary training, access to high-performance computing, and the chance to contribute to impactful clinical research.
To apply, candidates must send their CV and motivation letter to Dr. Ashley Rooney ([email protected]) and consult the UZH Microbiology and Immunology PhD program details at https://mim.ethz.ch. The application deadline is January 16, 2026.
Funding details
The post offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment, training in wet-lab and bioinformatics techniques, access to high-performance computing resources, and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge diagnostic technologies. Specific details about stipend, tuition coverage, or funding type are not provided.
What's required
Applicants should have a background in Molecular Microbiology, Computational Biology, or a related field. Experience with RNA sequencing, nanopore sequencing technology, and bioinformatics analysis is advantageous but not mandatory. Strong problem-solving, analytical, writing, and communication skills are required, as well as the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team. High attention to detail, organizational skills, and strong motivation to contribute to translational medical research are essential.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Professors
Professor
Switzerland
Research Interests
Microbiology
Pediatric Nursing
Antibiotic Resistance
Phd Studentship In: A Simple Approach To Tailoring Biofilms For Effective Removal Of Micropollutants During Wastewater Treatment
Quorum Sensing
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.