We welcome applications for a PhD position within the project “Bioengineering artificial extremozymes and ‘extremocells’ for robust and sustainable biocatalysis” as part of an Ambizione grant funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. The successful candidate will work directly under the supervision of the Ambizione grantee, Dr. Ana I. Benítez-Mateos.

 

• Project background

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Enzyme catalysis is gaining momentum as a highly selective and sustainable strategy to synthesize pharmaceuticals, fragrance molecules, or food additives. However, biocatalysts are not adapted to the non-natural conditions to which they are exposed during reactions. Hence, they suffer from low stability which impacts their cost-efficiency.

In this project, we aim to develop a novel protein bioengineering technology to develop robust and efficient biocatalysts, with the potential to become a universal tool to transform any enzyme/cell into a more efficient biocatalyst. In reaching its goals, this project will not only consolidate but also expand the role of biocatalysis in industry, biomedicine, and biotechnology towards a more sustainable society.

 

• We offer:

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A full-time position for 4 years starting immediately or upon mutual agreement (between September and November 2024). You will work in an interdisciplinary Lab of researchers with strong expertise in Biocatalysis and Intrinsically Disordered Proteins. Furthermore, collaborations with well-known researchers from Switzerland, UK, Germany, and USA are planned. Throughout the project there will be mentoring opportunities, including bachelor and master students’ projects. You will actively participate in group and institute duties as well as teaching activities. As an integral part of your work, you will publish your results in peer-reviewed journals and present them at (inter)national conferences.

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ETH Zurich is an employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity, and attractive offers and benefits together with world-leading infrastructure and facilities. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected.

 

• You have:

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A master’s degree in Biology, (Bio)chemistry, Biotechnology, Chemical/Bioengineering, or related disciplines from a recognized university. An excellent track-record and meet the general admission requirements for a doctorate at ETH Zurich. Proficiency in English, good communication skills, and social competence are required. We welcome self-motivated candidates with commitment to scientific excellence and willingness to travel.

 

• Workplace:

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The position will be mainly based in the Biochemical Engineering Laboratory (headed by Prof. P. Arosio) at the Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences at ETH Zurich, Switzerland. Moreover, the candidate will spend 1-2 years (to be determined) at the Technical University of Munich, Germany.

 

• Apply:

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We look forward to receiving your application with the following documents:

  - Curriculum vitae (max. 2 pages)

  - Copies of BSc and MSc educational records

  - Motivation letter (max. 1 page)

  - Names and contact details of 1-2 references

 

Applications should be directed to Dr. Ana I. Benítez-Mateos ana.benitez-mateos@chem.ethz.ch

 

​The applications will be evaluated on a rolling bases. This announcement will be ​​​removed when a suitable candidate is found.