Job Description

Department of Chemistry

PhD Position in Redox Chemical Biology 80 %

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Start of employment to be mutually agreed
We are a dynamic, interdisciplinary, medium-size lab working at the interface of chemistry and biology. We work on the development of probes to visualize and control biological processes in living systems. World-class infrastructure is available in our lab, the department, or at technology platforms of the University of Zurich. We are located at University of Zurich, Irchel campus, where you would work in one of the newest and most modern chemistry buildings in Europe.



The Laboratory of Chemical and Biological Probes (Prof. Rivera Fuentes) is looking for a PhD student to work on the development of novel chemical tools to study redox biological processes. The following two recent publications are indicative of ongoing work of our lab in this area: Nat. Chem. 2023, 15, 1415; Redox Biol. 2025, 81, 103560. See also the group's website for more information.

Your responsibilities

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As a PhD student working on any of these projects, you would synthesize and purify small-molecule dyes, characterize them structurally, and analyze their photophysical properties. Additionally, you would clone, express and purify proteins, label them using a variety of bioconjugation strategies, and characterize them by various techniques, including X-ray crystallography. You would also clone vectors for expression in mammalian cells to enable live-cell imaging experiments. In all cases, you would be expected to use state-of-the-art data analysis methods, including machine learning, to gain insight from your observations. Later in the project, you would work collaboratively to develop stable cell lines using genome editing techniques and contribute to a large knock-out screening campaign. Additionally, you would be an active member of our group, contributing to routine lab maintenance, participating in group meetings and in selected outreach activities. You would also contribute to teaching as assistant in lab courses and lectures. You would also write reports and papers, and prepare presentations for national and international conferences.

Your profile

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Highly motivated student with a solid background in synthetic chemistry or biochemistry. A background in materials chemistry, engineering, or theoretical chemistry, with no experience in either synthetic organic chemistry or molecular biology is not suitable for this position. Strongly interested in developing new technologies to visualize proteins in complex biological samples and elucidate mechanisms in redox biology. Previous experience in de novo protein design, directed evolution, redox biology, single-molecule imaging, and/or machine learning is an advantage. MSc degree in chemistry or biochemistry and proficiency in oral and written English are formal requirements.

Information on your application

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Please submit your application as a single PDF file including a motivation letter including a concise summary of your research experience, CV and copy of transcripts. Letters of recommendation will only be required for shortlisted candidates. Applications will be received until November 30, 2025. Incomplete applications or those arriving after the deadline will not be considered.

What we offer

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Work-Life Balance

Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing) Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH

Learning and Development

Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

Food

Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

Healthcare

Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ Free seasonal flu vaccinations Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

Discounts

Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions Special conditions on hotel reservations

Conditions of Employment

Policies of the UZH Most UZH staff are employed according to public law

International Services

Support for people from outside Switzerland

Campuses

Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

Location

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Department of Chemistry

Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland

Further information

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Questions about the job

Pablo Rivera Fuentes

Professor

Working at UZH

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The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!