The Department of Plant Molecular Biology (DBMV) at the University of Lausanne (UNIL) is inviting applications for two fully funded Graduate Assistant (PhD student) positions in the newly established research group led by Dr. Maite Colinas. The research group focuses on the evolution and regulation of plant specialized metabolism.
Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Graduate Assistant (PhD Student) – 2 Positions |
| Host Institution | University of Lausanne (UNIL) |
| Department | Department of Plant Molecular Biology (DBMV) |
| Research Group | Group of Dr. Maite Colinas |
| Location | Lausanne-Dorigny, Switzerland |
| Contract Type | 1 year, renewable (up to 5 years maximum) |
| Workload | 90% Activity Rate |
| Expected Start Date | Spring 2027 (March 1, 2027 at the earliest) |
| Application Deadline | Review begins December 1, 2026 (open until filled) |
Designation
Graduate Assistant / Fully Funded PhD Student (2 positions)
Research Area
Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Specialized Metabolism, Natural Product Biosynthesis, Single-cell Omics, and Metabolic Engineering.
Location
Biophore Building, Dorigny Campus, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
Scholarship & Position Description
Plants synthesize an extraordinary diversity of specialized metabolites mediating ecological interactions and providing essential human therapeutics. The research group investigates the evolution of specialized metabolic pathways as an integrated whole—spanning biosynthetic enzymes to transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory systems.
Key duties and research responsibilities include:
- Conducting independent experimental research on plant specialized metabolism using state-of-the-art omics (including single-cell platforms), protein biochemistry, and plant biotechnology.
- Designing, executing, and interpreting advanced molecular and biochemical assays.
- Presenting scientific findings at international conferences, departmental seminars, and laboratory meetings, as well as authoring peer-reviewed manuscripts.
- Assisting in undergraduate biology teaching and mentoring student research projects.
- Enrolling in the doctoral school of the Faculty of Biology and Medicine with structured training and professional mentorship.
Eligibility / Qualifications
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Hold an MSc degree (or equivalent, recently awarded or near completion) in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related life science disciplines.
- Demonstrated interest in plant biochemistry, non-classical model plant species, omics data analysis (genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics), and plant-biotic interactions.
- Solid foundational knowledge in molecular biology and protein biochemistry.
- High motivation to learn and develop innovative laboratory techniques.
- Excellent oral and written English communication skills.
- Desirable asset: Prior hands-on experience with mass spectrometry, single-cell approaches, or bioinformatics/programming is advantageous but not strictly mandatory.
What the Position Offers
- Full funding for up to five years (initial 1-year contract, renewable 2 x 2 years).
- Access to cutting-edge core research facilities (metabolomics, genomics, flow cytometry, and advanced imaging) at UNIL and the neighbouring EPFL campus.
- Mentorship within a highly collaborative, international, and English-speaking research environment located next to Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application in English as a single PDF document via the UNIL recruitment portal. The file must include:
- A one-page motivation letter detailing your research experience, academic interests, and why you wish to join the laboratory.
- A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Copies of MSc degree certificates and/or academic transcripts of records.
- Contact details of 2 to 3 academic referees.
For informal scientific inquiries regarding the project, contact Dr. Maite Colinas at mmartinez@ice.mpg.de.
Last Date for Apply
Applications will be reviewed starting from December 1, 2026, and will proceed on a rolling basis until both positions are filled.
