PhD Position in Microbial Synthetic Biology and Microbiome Research University of Lausanne in Switzerland

PhD position in microbial synthetic biology and microbiome research at the University of Lausanne (Switzerland), in the Schaerli lab within the Department of Fundamental Microbiology. The project is part of the nationwide NCCR Microbiomes consortium and focuses on developing biosensors and novel genetic tools to study microbe–microbe and microbe–host interactions.

The selected PhD candidate will design, construct, test, and apply bacterial biosensors to detect metabolites and environmental signals across diverse systems, including the honey bee and mouse gut. The research sits at the interface of synthetic biology, microbiology, and molecular biology, with strong collaborative links across the NCCR network.

Eligibility highlights include a Master’s degree in life sciences or biology, experience or strong interest in synthetic biology, microbiology, or molecular biology, and an interest in broader microbiome science. Experience with molecular cloning, flow cytometry, and microscopy is advantageous. The candidate should be willing to participate in or assist with animal experiments involving bees and/or mice, and must have strong written and spoken English, motivation, curiosity, and the ability to work both independently and in a team.

Funding information: the position is a 100% PhD appointment with a competitive salary. The contract is initially for 1 year and can be extended up to 4 years. No tuition waiver or scholarship programme is mentioned.

Application deadline: 24 May 2026. Apply via the UNIL Job website only, and upload a PDF application including a motivation letter, CV with months and years, and contact details of three referees.