PhD position in breath metabolomics for enhancing dairy cattle welfare and health

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PhD position in breath metabolomics for enhancing dairy cattle welfare and

health

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

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The Group of Animal Nutrition is seeking a motivated, team-oriented person with a strong interest in the interface of basic and applied research in agricultural and nutrition sciences to develop a non-invasive method as a tool for assessing rumen fermentation and microbial functions, physiological status, and health of dairy cows, in order to improve animal welfare.

The expected starting time is September 2023.

Project background

This interdisciplinary research project includes:

Investigate the potential of using exhalomics (breath metabolomics) as a non-invasive tool for assessing rumen microbial functions and animal metabolic health in ruminant animals.

Evaluating the effect of nutritional manipulations.

Identifying and validating biomarkers for the health of animals.

Evaluating and comparing the performance of various analytical platforms, developing and evaluating gas sensors for species in animal breath in collaboration with partner groups.

Job description

You are expected to conduct interdisciplinary research in animal nutrition and analytical chemistry. Affinity for animal experiments and laboratory work is essential. The job duties include,

to conduct in vivo experiments;

to conduct lab analysis;

to conduct statistical analysis and modelling;

to publish and present your research findings.

Your profile

A master's degree in Agricultural Science, Animal Science, Chemistry, Biology, Nutrition Science, Food Science, Veterinary Medicine, or related disciplines is a prerequisite for official doctoral admission at ETH Zurich.

A strong interest in electrochemistry, analytical chemistry, biology, nutritional physiology, microbiology, or statistics is preferable.

Communication capability in English is a must.

Your workplace Your workplace We offer

We offer exciting and future-oriented projects in highly motivated research groups with excellent experimental and laboratory facilities. These are provided at the research center AgroVet-Strickhof (Group of Animal Nutrition) and ETH Hönggerberg (in close collaboration with the Groups of Analytical Chemistry and Air Quality and Particle Technology). Supervision will be close but allows independent work. Scientific writing and participation in scientific conferences are very much supported.

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We value diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

CV incl. publication list (if applicable)

A statement (no more than 1,000 words) describing your motivation, experience, and planned contributions to the position

Bachelor and master transcripts and certificates (incomplete MSc. transcript is fine if the candidate is still finishing the MSc. study)

Names, affiliation, and contact details for three individuals willing to act as a reference

Master's thesis as a pdf file (if applicable/available)

Please note applications sent via email or postal services will not be considered. Interested applicants must upload the following documents through the ETH Zurich online application portal. Contact Prof. Niu ([email protected]) for further questions. Applications will be reviewed immediately and are accepted until the position is filled.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

CV incl. publication list (if applicable)

A statement (no more than 1,000 words) describing your motivation, experience, and planned contributions to the position

Bachelor and master transcripts and certificates (incomplete MSc. transcript is fine if the candidate is still finishing the MSc. study)

Names, affiliation, and contact details for three individuals willing to act as a reference

Master's thesis as a pdf file (if applicable/available)

Please note applications sent via email or postal services will not be considered. Interested applicants must upload the following documents through the ETH Zurich online application portal. Contact Prof. Niu ([email protected]) for further questions. Applications will be reviewed immediately and are accepted until the position is filled.

Apply online now

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

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