The Animal Nutrition group within the Institute of Agricultural Sciences at ETH Zurich investigates quality of animal-source food products in addition to nutrient digestion and metabolism, nutritional physiology, and efficiency. The group applies hypothesis-driven experimental approaches and data-driven approaches to better understand the biological function of livestock animals and to develop strategies for improving the sustainability of livestock systems. We are looking for a motivated, team-oriented researcher who is eager to go beyond the state-of-the-art and work on cutting-edge research projects. The position is based at ETH Zurich, Switzerland. You will join the Animal Nutrition group led by Mutian Niu. 

This is a full-time position with an anticipated start date of Sep. 1st, 2024 (negotiable).

The position is expected to bridge nutritional and dietary factors with the quality of dairy food products, such as milk and cheese, with the goal to provide foods of particular quality and health value for human consumption. It is important to note that the advertised position is not bound to a particular research project. Potential directions of research include, but are not limited to:

• to investigate the impact of dietary nutrients on milk quality, and chemical and sensory properties of cheese
• to understand the biochemical and microbial interactions and transformations that occur during food production and processing and their effect on the quality and functionality of dairy foods
• to explore developed and emerging technologies that are sustainable and that can produce added value (i.e., texture, taste and nutritional value) of dairy products

Our group also contributes to large international collaborative projects such as the Global Research Alliance (GRA) Feed Additive Flagship Project. We have ongoing collaborations with international partners such as the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI; Kenya), the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT; Colombia), the United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS; U.S.), Deschambault Animal Science Research Centre (CRSAD; Canada), China Agricultural University (CAU; China), and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS; China).

We are looking for an enthusiastic and collaborative researcher who is eager to:

• contribute to ongoing research projects
• develop and implement her/his own research ideas
• support the projects of doctoral and master students

Active participation in international conferences and scientific writing is very much supported.

Our group contributes to the teaching in the study program Agricultural Sciences, as well as Food Sciences at ETH. Contributing to the supervision of the Bachelor or Master thesis, teaching existing courses, such as «Quality of Products of Animal Origin» and «Bioactive Food and Feed Components», offered to students of Agricultural Science and Food Science, or the development of novel complementary offerings is expected.

The successful candidate should have a strong interest in food science, nutrition, and animal science. Experience with food quality and technologies is required. Must be able to work independently and as a team. Applicants should have a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in an appropriate field that is related to the advertised position. The advertised position is also available to more senior researchers (e.g., those who already have postdoctoral experience). The writing of scientific papers and participation in international conferences require good knowledge of English.

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.

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.

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

• A cover/motivation letter (no more than 2 pages) that demonstrates
  • your interest and suitability for the offered position, and
  • information about the future research questions you would like to pursue
• A CV including a list of publications, and a complete academic record
• Copies of Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees and transcripts
• A copy of the Ph.D. dissertation (if available)
• Names and contact information of three references

Please note that we only accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Applications will be reviewed starting from May 13th, 2024, and are accepted until the position is filled.

For questions about the position, please contact Mutian Niu via email mutian.niu@usys.ethz.ch (no applications).

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.