Doctoral Position in Environmental Microbiology

The Environmental Microbiology group led by Prof. Marie Schölmerich at the Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, invites applications for a fully funded 4 year Doctoral Position. Our group explores the fascinating world of anaerobic microbiology from the global to the microscopic scale. This project investigates the physiology and bioenergetics of alkaliphilic methanogenic archaea.

Project background

The National Centre of Competence in Research NCCR Genesis is a research infrastructure project funded by SNSF focussing on exploring the emergence of life in the Universe. This interdisciplinary research infrastructure brings together physicists, earth and planetary scientists, chemists and biologists to understand the conditions and the mechanisms that enable life to emerge. Developing reliable methods to detect reliable traces of life (biosignatures) – whether through remote sensing or direct onsite measurements – requires significant innovation. These challenges demand close collaboration across physics, biology, chemistry and the earth sciences. NCCR Genesis does not aim to provide answers in all fields, but to drive innovative research and achieve decisive progress.

Details on NCCR Genesis are available on its website.

NCCR Genesis is deeply committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. Our aim is to cultivate a respectful and fair work culture with equal access to professional development and support for all. We strongly encourage applications from under-represented groups.

Job description

• Alkaline environments such as soda lakes and serpentinising vents are candidate sites for the emergence of life on Earth and potential habitats on ocean worlds like Enceladus
• Methanogenic archaea are the main biological source of the greenhouse gas methane
• Some methanogenic archaea can thrive under alkaliphilic conditions where conventional energy conservation reaches its limits
• This Doctoral project seeks to investigate what limits the growth of alkaliphilic methanogens, how they conserve energy and acquire carbon at high pH, and which signatures distinguish their methane from abiotic methane
• The work combines anaerobic cultivation, physiology and biochemistry

Profile

• MSc (or equivalent) in microbiology, environmental sciences or a related field
• Experience in anaerobic cultivation and/or protein biochemistry is an advantage
• Curiosity about fundamental questions and enthusiasm for experimental work and excellent communication skills in English

We offer

• Opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research with the potential for high impact in the field of environmental microbiology
• Encouraging and collaborative research environment
• A Doctoral Position in a national, interdisciplinary network linking microbiology with geochemistry, planetary science and origin-of-life research
• Training in anaerobic microbiology, bioenergetics, and omics
• A fundamental research question with direct relevance to astrobiology and the methane cycle
• Support for career goals through conference travel and workshops
• Exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. 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. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

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

• Cover letter
• CV including publication list
• Diploma and Transcript of Records
• Contact details of two references

Further information about the Environmental Microbiology Group in the Department of Environmental Systems Sciences can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Marie Schölmerich, marie.schoelmerich@usys.ethz.ch (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

The deadline for applications is 1 December 2026.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.