Summary
ETH Zurich is offering a fully funded, 100% PhD position within the National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) Genesis infrastructure project. Based in the Riek Group within the Institute of Molecular Physical Science, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences (D-CHAB), this role focuses on investigating how life emerges from simple chemical building blocks into self-replicating molecular systems.
PhD Position in NCCR Genesis: On the Rise of Molecular Complexity at the Origin of Life at ETH Zurich, Switzerland
Designation
PhD Candidate / PhD Position
Key Details
| Category | Details |
| Position Title | PhD Position in NCCR Genesis |
| Host Institution | ETH Zurich |
| Department / Group | Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences (D-CHAB) / Riek Group |
| Employment Type | Full-time (100%), Fixed-term (approx. 4 years) |
| Location | Zurich, Switzerland |
| Start Date | Fall 2026 or by mutual agreement |
| Application Deadline | Open until filled |
Research Area
Emergence of molecular complexity and self-replicating chemical systems at the origin of life.
- Prebiotic & Physical/Organic Chemistry: Emergence of molecular complexity from simple building blocks (e.g., amino acids and nucleotides).
- Self-Replicating Systems: Peptide amyloids and their interactions with RNA and membranes.
- Proto-ribosomal Machinery: Understanding primitive biological assembly at the origin of life.
Location
Zurich, Switzerland (ETH Zurich campus)
Eligibility / Qualification
- Education: A Master’s degree with a strong background in experimental chemistry (ideally physical and/or organic chemistry).
- Research Interests: A strong passion for interdisciplinary research combining chemistry, physics, biology, and earth/planetary sciences.
- Language Proficiency: Fluent written and spoken English communication skills are required.
- Soft Skills: Excellent interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills with a collaborative mindset.
Job Description
- Conduct experimental research on the rise of molecular complexity from simple prebiotic molecules toward self-replicating chemical architectures.
- Study peptide amyloids and their structural/functional interactions with RNA and lipid membranes to explore proto-ribosomal systems.
- Utilize state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and experimental techniques.
- Analyze complex chemical data, draft research papers for leading academic journals, and present research results at international scientific conferences.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted exclusively online via the official portal. Applications sent via email or post will not be accepted.
Required Application Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter (maximum 1 page) explaining your interest in the rise of molecular complexity at the origin of life.
- Academic Transcripts/Diplomas: Copies of available BSc/MSc diplomas or current transcripts.
- References: Contact details for 2 referees (inform them in advance as they may be contacted).
👉 Submit your application directly through the ETH Zurich Online Application Portal.
Last Date for Apply
Open until filled. There is no fixed application deadline; the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected.
