Research assistant for ultra-long read sequencing

The Animal Genomics group within the Institute of Agricultural Sciences at ETH Zurich investigates animal (epi-)genomes and transcriptomes. We apply long read sequencing to detect and characterize trait-associated sequence variation in farm animals with an emphasis on cattle. We are looking for a motivated research assistant who is eager to support cutting-edge research projects within a young and international team.

We are looking for a wet lab-experienced person to join our team as soon as possible. This is a full-time fixed term (2 years) position with an anticipated start date of October 1st, 2024 (negotiable). The position is based at ETH Zurich, Switzerland. You will join the Animal Genomics group led by Hubert Pausch.

We sequence the genomes of farm animals to identify trait-associated sequence variation. This position focuses on the development and application of ultra long read sequencing workflows and pipelines for the analysis of (epi-)genomes and transcriptomes of cattle. The main task of the incumbent is to develop, apply, and implement DNA purification and sequencing protocols to collect ultra long reads. The incumbent will apply both Oxford Nanopore and PacBio sequencing technologies to collect ultra-long reads. We have access to ETH's state-of-the-art molecular user labs equipped with both short- and long-read sequencing technologies (Illumina, PacBio, ONT) and the Euler high-performance computing cluster. We are committed to open and reproducible research. 

We are looking for a research assistant that is eager to support cutting-edge research projects that involve the generation and analysis of massive third generation sequencing data. You will develop wet lab protocols and workflows to collect (ultra) long sequencing data from different tissue sources and blood samples. You will be responsible to interact with our sequencing facility to ensure the protocols are robust and sequencing yields are stable. You will be able to acces ONT and PacBio technologies to generate data. A contribution to the bioinformatic analysis of the generated data is possible.

Active participation in user group meetings and relevant conferences are very much supported to stay up to date regarding latest developments in this domain.

Our group contributes to the teaching in the study program Agricultural Sciences at ETH. Depending on the experience of the incumbent, a contribution to supervising Bachelor/Master thesis and to the teaching of existing courses, or the development of novel complementary lab-focused offers is expected.

You have experience in the wet-lab and are familiar with DNA and RNA purification and QC. Experience with either ONT or PacBio sequencing is a prerequisite. You are interested in applying state-of-the art sequencing technologies to address scientific questions in an academic environment. This position is ideally suited for a researcher that is interested in developing and applying cutting-edge long read sequencing methods. You will closely work with doctoral and postdoctoral researcher and support their projects.

Applicants should hold a Bsc, Msc, or PhD degree in disciplines that are related to the advertised position.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.