Postdoctoral Researcher - Metabolomics
Immigration Policy Lab
Postdoctoral Researcher - Metabolomics
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
The Institute of Molecular Systems Biology (IMSB) at ETH Zurich invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Metabolomics & Technology Development in the laboratory of Prof. Dr. Nicola Zamboni.
Project background
Prof. Dr. Nicola Zamboni’s team studies how metabolism functions and is regulated. The group focuses on systems in which metabolism or metabolites influence phenotypic differentiation and biomedical processes, particularly in complex or technically challenging settings. To address these questions, the lab develops and applies new methods for metabolomics, lipidomics, and ¹³C metabolic flux analysis, as well as for data processing, integration, and interpretation. Current research directions include, for example, applying DIA-based strategies in large-scale studies, combining electron- and photon-activation methods for structural analysis of metabolites and lipids, creating metabolomics knowledge graphs, and inferring fluxes from MS data. The group collaborates with mass spectrometry vendors and technology partners to evaluate emerging instrumentation and software and translate them into robust, scalable workflows.
Alongside method development, the Zamboni Lab is tightly embedded in numerous collaborations with academic, clinical, and pre-clinical groups, for which it provides measurements as well as expertise in the interpretation and integration of metabolomics data. The lab is a pillar of the Swiss Multi-Omics Center (SMOC) and contributes state-of-the-art metabolomics and lipidomics capabilities to large consortia, including activities connected to personalized health.
The lab is seeking a postdoctoral fellow who will integrate with the existing team and support both in the development of new concepts and in delivering high-quality measurements to partners and collaborators. The exact focus will be tailored to the candidate’s strengths and evolving opportunities in the field.
Job description
- Contribute to LC–MS/MS method development and benchmarking, with a strong focus on untargeted workflows (DIA/DDA) and scalable, robust acquisition strategies.
- Design, execute, and document high-quality measurements for internal projects and external collaborations, including appropriate QC, troubleshooting, and clear reporting of results.
- Operate and optimize automated sample preparation workflows, including liquid-handling robotics (method setup, optimization, validation, and QC).
- Drive untargeted data processing workflows (feature extraction, alignment, QC metrics, drift/batch correction) and reporting.
- Advance annotation strategies using modern approaches such as spectral/structure fingerprinting, molecular networking, in-silico annotation, and emerging machine-learning and generative methods for spectra or structure proposals.
- Evaluate and test emerging technologies (hardware and software) in close interaction with collaborators and vendors, translating promising ideas into reliable pipelines.
- Contribute to instrument performance monitoring and maintenance, including routine upkeep and first-line troubleshooting in coordination with the team.
- Collaborate effectively with team members, clinical/pre-clinical partners, and consortium stakeholders (e.g., SMOC-related activities), aligning deliverables and timelines.
- Support training and knowledge transfer (tutorials, onboarding, best-practice documentation).
- Represent the lab at conferences and scientific meetings through talks, posters, and networking.
- Contribute to scientific manuscripts and publications.
Profile
- A genuine passion for metabolomics and technology development with an impact mindset (turning ideas into usable capabilities).
- PhD in analytical chemistry, bioengineering, biochemistry, computational biology, systems biology, or a related field.
- Strong hands-on expertise in high-resolution LC–MS/MS, with proven experience in metabolomics, lipidomics, or exposomics.
- Demonstrated experience with untargeted acquisition and study workflows (DDA/DIA), including QC concepts and reproducible practices.
- Deep knowledge of untargeted processing pipelines (feature extraction, alignment, adduct/isotope handling, QC metrics, drift/batch correction, reporting).
- Strong expertise in annotation/identification techniques, including library-based and in-silico strategies, fingerprinting, molecular networking, and familiarity with ML/generative approaches for spectra/structure or annotation confidence.
- Hands-on experience with automation for sample preparation, including liquid-handling robotics (method setup, optimization, validation, and troubleshooting).
- Excellent technical skills in MS operation, including routine maintenance and performance troubleshooting.
- Proactive, collaborative personality; excellent communication skills in interdisciplinary environments.
Desirable qualifications
- Interest/experience in advanced activation/fragmentation concepts for structural elucidation (e.g., electron/photon-based methods).
- Strong computational skills (R/Python), workflow automation, and pipeline maintenance in a reproducible framework.
Workplace
Workplace
We offer
- A 2-year fixed-term position, with the possibility of extension depending on performance and funding.
- A multifaceted and intellectually stimulating role at a world-class university, with a highly competitive salary and excellent working conditions.
- Access to state-of-the-art LC–MS instrumentation and analytical infrastructure, and the opportunity to develop and deploy new workflows in real, high-impact projects.
- A highly collaborative and international research environment, embedded in broad academic, clinical, and pre-clinical collaborations.
- Support for professional development and dissemination (e.g., conference participation and networking).
We value diversity and sustainability
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:
- CV with a complete list of publications
- A motivation letter stating your vision and specifying any past experience aligned with the job profile
- Names and contact details of two referees
Further information about the Institute of Molecular Systems Biology can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr Nicola Zamboni, email nzamboni@ethz.ch (no applications).
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.