The Laboratory of Microbial Ecology and Biotechnology at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland, is inviting applications for a fully funded four-year Ph.D. position in Microbial Physiology and Biotechnology.
Research Focus and Project Scope
Methanogenic archaea play critical roles in global carbon cycling, wetland greenhouse gas emissions, and anaerobic waste digestion systems (including aquaculture and municipal wastewater facilities). This doctoral project focuses on understanding the physiology, genetic regulation, and ecological interactions of these unique microorganisms. Key areas of investigation include:
- Investigating the metabolic pathways and energetics of methanogenesis using advanced anaerobic cultivation techniques.
- Applying bioinformatics, transcriptomics, and comparative genomics to map the regulatory networks of archaeal species.
- Developing engineered microbial consortia for optimized biogas production and biomethane capture.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, set up, and maintain anaerobic cultivation systems for methanogenic archaea.
- Perform DNA/RNA extractions, sequencing, and transcriptomic data analysis.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary researchers in biogeochemistry, bioinformatics, and process engineering.
- Write scientific papers, compile a doctoral dissertation, and present research at international microbiology conferences.
Funding and Research Environment
- Fully funded Ph.D. contract for 4 years, offering a highly competitive Swiss salary and comprehensive social benefits.
- Based at EPFL’s world-class campus in Lausanne, overlooking Lake Geneva.
- Access to cutting-edge sequencing, microscopy, and analytical chemistry platforms.
Preferred Qualifications
- M.Sc. degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
- Prior experience in microbial cultivation (especially anaerobic techniques) or molecular biology.
- Strong quantitative interest, with basic skills in python, R, or bioinformatic pipelines.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills in English.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their application (cover letter, CV, degree certificates, transcripts, and contact info for two references) via the EPFL Doctoral School application portal. Please apply under the EDCE (Civil and Environmental Engineering) or EDMS (Molecular Life Sciences) doctoral programs.