Doctoral position in plant metabolism and stable isotope biology (H-Shifts)

The doctoral project will involve both controlled-environment experiments and field studies. Design and conduct plant growth experiments under controlled isotopic conditions. Sampling and preparation of plant tissues (sugars, starch, cellulose). Stable isotope measurements (e.g., IRMS and NMR-based methods). Data analysis and modelling of isotope signals to infer metabolic processes. Contribution to field experiments on soybean diversity and crop traits. Statistical analysis (e.g., in R or Python) and interpretation of complex datasets. Presentation of results at international conferences and publication in peer-reviewed journals.

You will join a dynamic and interdisciplinary research team working at the interface of plant metabolism, stable isotope analysis, and crop improvement. The position sits within the Grassland Science group in the Institute of Agricultural Sciences at the Department of Environmental Systems Science at ETH Zurich, in close collaboration with the Physiological Plant Ecology group at the University of Basel where much of the work will be conducted.

• A Master’s degree in plant biology, biochemistry, environmental sciences, biogeochemistry, agronomy, ecology or a related field.

• Experience or awareness of isotope applications

• Experience with laboratory protocols

• Interest in plant metabolism and physiology

• Quantitative and statistical skills (e.g., R, Python)

• Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary team

• Good written and spoken English

• Experience and skills working with analytical chemistry are an advantage but not required