The Genome Engineering and Measurement Lab (GEML) develops, implements, optimises, and analyses groundbreaking genome engineering tools and approaches supporting a wide range of research projects at ETHZ, UZH and the USZ. For our partnership with Prof. Corn’s Lab of Genome Biology, and as part of three ongoing EU-Horizon projects, we are seeking a Research Technician with expertise in Cellular and Molecular Biology to join our team.

The Genome Biology and the Genome Engineering and Measurement Labs are part of ETH Zürich. We are based in the Institute of Molecular Health Sciences at the ETHZ Hönggerberg campus. Our overarching goal is to deploy tools that can target unique genomic sites with the high activity and specificity required for in vivo and in vitro applications, such as gene and cell therapy, and diagnostics. We work in a fast-moving field, ensuring an exciting environment. The Research Technician position is initially for 12 months and extendable based on progress and evaluation of performance for up to a maximum of two years.

The successful applicant will be responsible for testing and comparing the On- and Off-target activity of different CRISPR/Cas tools in human cell lines and primary cells. Furthermore, they will work together with a small team of other technicians, graduate students, and senior scientists to profile genome engineering reagents in different cellular contexts and analyse samples provided by our European partners. The primary EU-Horizon projects will be pre-clinical in nature, and the applicant’s work will directly impact potential therapies for multiple genetic disorders!

• Mammalian tissue culture
• Cell editing and editing analysis
• Molecular biology, such as PCR, qPCR, ChIP, NGS library preparation
• Preparation and validation of diverse CRISPR/Cas reagents
• Assistance with general lab duties (e.g. organisation tasks)

The ideal candidate will be very well organised and able to work efficiently and with precision in a fast paced environment. You are proactive and can work independently but also as part of a small group. You can use computer software to handle, analyse, and share information. Advanced knowledge of English is critical, as this is the working language of the team.

Required skills:

• Molecular Biology or similar subject area qualification (e.g. B.Sc. degree or equivalent) and practical experience in industry or academia.
• Expertise with standard molecular biology techniques
• Mammalian cell culture experience

Preferred skills:

• Experience with applying CRISPR/Cas or other genome editing tools

Desired skills:

• Experience with Next Generation Sequencing library preparation protocols
• Experience with Off-target Identification workflows

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.

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 (include complete list of publications and references we can contact)
• Motivation Letter
• Certificates with transcripts

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

Further information about the Genome Biology and the Genome Engineering and Measurement Lab can be found on our websites: Cornlab and Genome Engineering and Measurement Lab.

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.