Head of Mass Spectrometry

You will lead the day-to-day operations of the MS platform, including scheduling, quality control and sample throughput across metabolomics, isotope tracing and other MS-omics workflows. In this role, you drive method development for LC-MS/MS-based stable isotope tracing, metabolomics, RNA modifications and lipid analysis, including applications to in vivo and patient-derived samples. You ensure high data quality, robust data management and fully reproducible workflows through rigorous QC and precise documentation. You will co-develop and implement automated sample preparation workflows to increase throughput and improve reproducibility. Co-design of the data acquisition and processing infrastructure around Orbitrap Astral instruments will be part of your responsibilities. You maintain mass spectrometry instruments at the highest performance standards and manage service contracts as well as consumables. Contribution to the development of single-cell mass spectrometry methods is expected as part of the lab's technology development agenda. You actively contribute to research projects, from experimental planning and data interpretation through to manuscript writing. Training and mentoring of graduate students, postdocs, and collaborators in MS techniques and experimental design is an important part of your work. You advise on and support the procurement of future equipment and contribute to grant applications for infrastructure funding. You represent the platform in internal and external collaborations across the Zurich life sciences community.

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education.

• Expert (MSc or PhD) in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, or a closely related field - with a strong mass spectrometry track record; Experience matters

• Hands-on expertise with high-resolution LC-MS platforms, ideally including Orbitrap-based instruments

• Proven experience in stable isotope tracing and/or metabolomics in a biological research context - this is central to the lab's work

• Demonstrated ability to develop and optimize analytical methods from first principles

• Experience with or strong interest in laboratory automation - liquid handling systems, automated sample prep, or workflow scripting

• Interest in or experience with single-cell mass spectrometry technologies is a plus

• Experience mentoring or teaching MS techniques to non-specialists

• Strong publication record showing independent scientific contributions

• Experience running or co-running a core or research facility is a strong plus, not prerequisite

• Fluent in English; German is an asset but not required