We seek to fill one postdoctoral position as part of a project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation and the Vontobel Foundation that focuses on online exhaled breath analysis and nutrition. The primary scientific goal of the Lactobreath project is to utilize metabolomics technologies to identify and measure metabolites associated with lactose metabolism found in exhaled breath. The project will be conducted in collaboration with Agroscope (Liebefeld Campus), University Hospital Zurich, and the Swiss Allergy Centre (aha!). The position will last for one year, with an anticipated start date either immediately or upon mutual agreement. 

Food intolerances are a significant cause of functional gastrointestinal disorders. While dietary intervention can help manage these conditions, accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. This interdisciplinary project will investigate the molecular composition of human exhaled breath as a potential source of biomarkers that indicate the clinical traits associated with lactose malabsorption (LM) (Lactobreath profiles), serving as proof of concept for the future application of this technology in diagnosing food intolerance. The identified breath biomarkers will be analyzed in relation to lactose malabsorption symptoms, typical diet, and clinical traits associated with lactose malabsorption, including genetic polymorphisms that regulate the lactase gene expression, breath hydrogen, and lactose-derived urinary metabolites. Lactobreath profiles will be mechanistically linked with metabolic traits associated with lactose malabsorption, including gut microbiota, colonic gases, and the urine metabolome.

You are expected to conduct interdisciplinary research in human nutrition. The job duties include:

• Assist in the analysis of metagenomic data obtained from stool samples collected during the nutritional intervention study.
• Support the analysis and interpretation of metabolomic data from breath and urine samples.
• Conduct statistical analyses of the acquired datasets.
• Contribute to the publication and presentation of research findings.
• Assist in the supervision of Ph.D. students.

Prerequisites: PhD. degree in microbiology/bioinformatics or nutrition (essential), experience with metagenomics (desirable), bioinformatics (experience using R or Python), multi-omics, and biochemistry. Communication capability in English is a must.

• Your career with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society.
• We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
• You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits.
• Training opportunities
• Perspectives for career development
• Support programmes (e.g., mentoring) and networks
• Fruitful working environment and employment conditions

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:

• CV
• Publication list
• PhD award
• A statement (up to 1,000 words) describing your motivation, experience, and planned contributions to the position
• The contact details of two referees 

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

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Stamatios Giannoukos ([email protected])  and/or Dr. Kathryn Pimentel ([email protected]). 

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.