Postdoctoral Position in Fungal Cell Biology or Biochemistry / Structural Biology of Starship Transposons at ETH Zürich – Switzerland

Summary

ETH Zurich’s Plant Disease Dynamics Group seeks a postdoctoral researcher to study how Starship transposons move and capture genes in plant‑pathogenic fungi. The role can focus on either cell‑biology assays or biochemical/structural characterisation of transposon proteins. The candidate will develop experimental models, collaborate with a genomics postdoc, manage data, supervise students, teach, publish, and apply for independent funding. A PhD in a relevant field and proven research excellence are required. The position offers a dynamic research environment, state‑of‑the‑art facilities, core budget support, flexible hours, and partial home‑office options. Applications are reviewed from 31 October until the role is filled.

Key Facts

Department	Plant Disease Dynamics Group
Position Type	Open
Discipline	Fungal Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Structural Biology
Research Area	Mechanisms of Starship transposon mobility in plant pathogenic fungi
Degree Required	PhD
Required Documents	Motivational letter, Academic C.V., 500 word statement on independent research interests, Contact details for two references
Employer Contact	Prof. Megan McDonald ([email protected])

About the Project

The project investigates the molecular mechanisms by which Starship transposons mobilise and capture cargo genes in plant‑infecting fungi. Depending on expertise, the researcher will either perform cellular assays to track transposon activity in living fungal cells or express, purify, and determine structures of transposon‑encoded proteins. Findings will be integrated with comparative genomics to link population‑level patterns to mechanistic models of horizontal gene transfer.

Key Responsibilities

• Investigate molecular mechanisms of Starship transposon mobility
• Develop and apply cellular assays (e.g., confocal, single‑cell sorting)
• Express, purify and biochemically characterise transposon proteins
• Determine protein structures (X‑ray, cryo‑EM or NMR)
• Establish experimental model systems
• Collaborate with genomics postdoc to integrate data
• Manage experimental data and resources
• Supervise and mentor PhD and Masters students
• Assist in delivering lectures or seminars
• Write and publish peer‑reviewed manuscripts
• Apply for funding to develop research independence

Required Skills

• PhD in a relevant field (fungal cell biology, biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology)
• Evidence of research excellence through peer‑reviewed publications
• Experience with wet‑lab fungal molecular genetics and cell biology techniques OR protein expression/purification and structural biology methods
• Commitment to reproducibility (record‑keeping, code repositories, open protocols)
• Desire to contribute to teaching undergraduate and Masters students
• Interest in establishing an independent research area

Who Should Apply

Postdoctoral researchers holding a PhD in fungal cell biology, biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology or a related discipline, with demonstrated research excellence and relevant wet‑lab experience, who are motivated to develop independent research and contribute to teaching.

Benefits

• Dynamic research environment in a newly established ETH group
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art central facilities at ETH Zurich
• Core budgetary support for consumables and IT infrastructure
• Integration into a wide plant pathology research network across four continents
• Inclusive and supportive team that values diversity
• Flexible working hours and partial home office if desired

About the Employer

ETH Zurich is described as one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology, renowned for excellent education, cutting‑edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries work there, fostering an environment that promotes independent thinking and excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the application review start and how long does it remain open?

Review begins on October 31st and continues until a suitable candidate is found.

How many references must be provided?

Contact details for two references are required.

Is remote work possible?

Flexible working hours and partial home office are offered if desired.

Who can be contacted for questions about the position?

Prof. Megan McDonald at [email protected].