Shana Sturla

A fully funded PhD position is available in the Laboratory of Toxicology at ETH Zürich, focusing on the impact of microbiome biotransformation on chemical toxicity and human health. The research aims to elucidate the role of the gut microbiome as a site of chemical biotransformation and its effects on host responses, combining wet lab and computational approaches. The successful candidate will quantify microbial biotransformation products and evaluate their toxicological effects, contributing to next-generation, animal-free hazard assessment. The project is co-mentored by Dr. Georg Aichinger, an expert in predictive toxicokinetics, and Prof. Shana Sturla, the head of the laboratory. Applicants should have a strong background in Chemistry, Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Food Science, Microbiology, or related fields, with good English communication skills and practical laboratory experience. Bioinformatics skills are a plus but can be developed during the PhD. The position offers extensive training, mentorship, and opportunities for professional growth, including conference attendance and leadership development. Applications are accepted online and reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. ETH Zürich is a world-leading university in science and technology, offering a diverse and inclusive environment in Zurich, Switzerland.

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.