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Georg Aichinger
1 year ago
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PhD Position in Toxicology: Gut Microbial Biotransformation and Human Health ETH Zürich in Switzerland
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Biochemistry
Funding
Available
Deadline
Expired
Country
Switzerland
University
ETH Zürich
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About this position
The Laboratory of Toxicology at ETH Zürich is seeking a PhD student to investigate the role of chemical bioactivation via gut microbial biotransformation and its implications for human health. This research group, part of the Department of Health Sciences & Technology, focuses on understanding the biochemical and cellular mechanisms that govern the bioactive properties of chemicals, aiming to promote human health and ensure chemical and drug safety. The lab employs quantitative chemical, in vitro, and computational approaches to address key questions in toxicology. The PhD project centers on elucidating the gut microbiome as a site of chemical biotransformation and its impact on host responses.
The work will involve microbiology, chemical bioanalysis, bioinformatics, and in vitro toxicology, contributing to the development of animal-free, next-generation hazard assessment methods. The successful candidate will quantify microbial biotransformation products and evaluate their potential toxicological effects on humans, combining wet lab and computational analysis.
The position offers co-mentorship by Dr. Georg Aichinger, an expert in predictive toxicokinetics, and Prof. Shana Sturla, the head of the laboratory.
Applicants should hold or expect to obtain an MSc or equivalent in Chemistry, Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Food Science, Microbiology, or a closely related field. Strong English communication skills, independence, leadership qualities, and practical laboratory experience are required. Bioinformatics skills are advantageous but can be developed during the PhD.
The lab encourages applications from students with backgrounds in microbial metabolism, quantitative toxicology, or related areas. ETH Zürich provides a fully funded PhD position within a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative research community. The program includes extensive training in toxicological and interdisciplinary research, dedicated supervision, opportunities for project development and leadership, and support for conference attendance and professional growth.
Applications must be submitted online with a cover letter, academic transcripts, and a CV listing three referees. The position is open until filled, with the start date as soon as possible. ETH Zürich is a world-leading university in science and technology, committed to diversity, sustainability, and excellence in research and education.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must have, or expect to obtain before starting, an MSc or equivalent in Chemistry, Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Food Science, Microbiology, or a closely related discipline. Good written and oral communication skills in English are required. Candidates should demonstrate a self-dependent mindset, leadership qualities, and a strong foundation of practical laboratory experience. Bioinformatics skills are beneficial but not mandatory. Students with experience in microbial metabolism research, quantitative toxicology, or related topics are especially encouraged to apply.
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Professors
Dr.
Switzerland
Research Interests
Microbiology
Pharmacology
Drug Metabolism
Gut Microbiota
Bioavailability
Prof.
Switzerland
Research Interests
Microbiology
Pharmaceutical Chemistry
Chemistry
Biology
Bioinformatic
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.