PhD position in bacterial synthetic biology

Introduction

UNIL is a leading international teaching and research institution, with over 5,000 employees and 17,000 students split between its Dorigny campus, CHUV and Epalinges. As an employer, UNIL encourages excellence, individual recognition and responsibility.

Presentation

The Schaerli lab offers a PhD position (SNSF) in bacterial synthetic biology at the Department of Fundamental Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Switzerland. 
The Schaerli lab carries out interdisciplinary research at the intersection of synthetic biology, systems biology and microbiology. We are currently seeking a highly motivated PhD student to construct synthetic oscillatory gene regulatory networks based on CRISPR interference and activation in E. coli. The project builds upon our previous work (Santos-Moreno et al., Nat. Commun. 2023, Barbier et al. ACS Synth. Biol., 2023, Park et al., Nat. Commun. 2024 and Holló et al., BioRxiv. 2024) and aims to develop a library of novel tunable and robust synthetic oscillators.

Job information

Expected start date in position : between 01.08.25 and 01.11.25
Contract length : 1 year, maximum 4 years
Activity rate : 100%
Workplace : University of Lausanne

Your responsibilities

The selected candidate will work on designing, building, characterizing and improving synthetic gene circuits in E. coli. The qualified candidate will benefit from working in a very stimulating and international research environment in a motivated team with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a competitive salary.

Your qualifications

Candidates should hold a Master’s degree in life sciences or biology and have a strong background in synthetic biology, systems biology, molecular biology, and/or microbiology. A high motivation to learn and apply advanced techniques—such as optogenetics, microfluidics, and turbidostats—is important. Experience with, or a keen interest in, mathematical modeling is considered a strong asset. A good command of written and spoken English, a high personal motivation to conduct scientific work, a curious mind and ability to work independently as well as a member of a team are required.

What the position offers you

We offer a supportive and stimulating environment, with access to excellent experimental facilities. The environment is highly international and interdisciplinary, and all activities are conducted in English. Beyond the training in the host laboratory, numerous possibilities for further collaborations and continuous training exist. The position offers a competitive salary. Our department is situated on a beautiful campus at the shore of Lake Geneva with a great view of the Alps.

Contact for further information

Prof. Yolanda Schaerli: yolanda.schaerli at unil.ch

Your application

Application deadline: 30.04.2025

Please include your full application in a single PDF (motivation letter, CV, list of publications and the contact details of two referees) in English.

Only applications through the university website will be taken into account. We thank you for your understanding.
 

Additional information

UNIL is committed to:
•    equality, diversity and inclusion within its community;
•    ensuring an open and respectful environment that is conducive to personal development;
•    offering working conditions that facilitate work-life balance;
•    supporting early career researchers.

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