Lab manager with expertise in wetlab techniques and proven track record in the management of a wetlab laboratory 100%

Zurich

Key information

Publication date:02 September 2025
Workload:100%
Contract type:Unlimited employment
Place of work:Zurich

Job summary

Join ETH Zurich as a Lab Manager in the Environmental Microfluidics Lab. Be part of a collaborative and international team!

Tasks

Oversee wetlab operations and ensure safety and compliance.
Manage purchasing and resources, including supplies and equipment.
Support lab safety training and protocol development for team members.

Skills

BSc in biology, chemistry, or related field with 3 years' lab experience.
Strong communication skills to engage with diverse teams.
Proficient in English and German for effective collaboration.

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Lab manager with expertise in wetlab techniques and proven track record in the management of a wetlab laboratory

100%, Zurich, permanent

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The Environmental Microfluidics Lab of Prof. Roman Stocker at ETH Zurich is seeking a full-time Lab Manager. Our research focuses on microbial ecology, aquatic and marine processes, and environmental fluid dynamics. We use a broad spectrum of technologies in microbiology and microfluidics, as well as advanced imaging techniques, and are a large (approx. 35 members), highly international and collaborative team. If you enjoy making interdisciplinary laboratories efficient, safe, and welcoming, we look forward to your application!

Job description

As Lab Manager for the Stocker Group, you will take a leading role in the following areas:

General laboratory organization . Oversight of all wetlab operations, including standard operating procedures and waste management, to ensure efficient and safe use of all facilities. Coordination of instrument maintenance, repair and acquisition (including microscopes and microfluidics equipment). Serving as a contact person for after-hour alarms and coordination of alarm responders. Providing guidance and oversight of facility usage.

Purchasing and resource management . Coordination of purchasing and supply chains, including consumables, chemicals, and equipment. Obtaining and negotiating quotes, projecting budgets, and supporting strategic planning for equipment investments and evaluation of new technologies.

Lab safety and compliance . Acting as Safety Officer for the Stocker Group, covering biological, chemical, and laser safety. Introduction and training of new lab members or visiting researchers, organization of annual refresher courses, and development of safety concepts in line with ETH and federal regulations. Serving as Safety Coordinator for the Institute for Environmental Engineering, consulting on lab safety, waste management, and protocols across shared Institute spaces.

[Optional] Cleanroom work and microfabrication
Fabrication of microfluidic molds and development of new protocols for device production.

Profile

You hold a BSc in biology, chemistry, biochemistry or equivalent training (e.g. Laborant*in EFZ, Fachrichtung Biologie) and bring at least three years of experience in a laboratory environment, ideally in microbiology or a related field within the life sciences.

You have a proven track record in overseeing the running of a medium-to-large, dynamic research laboratory, and the ability to support and collaborate with team members at all levels.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills enable you to work effectively with multidisciplinary and international teams, and you interact professionally with diverse stakeholders within and beyond academia. You have an excellent command of both English and German.

You are a fast learner. A basic knowledge of optical microscopy and/or microfluidics and soft lithography fabrication techniques is a plus.

Workplace

We offer

An exciting and stimulating work environment with challenging projects, access to state-of-the-art technology, and opportunities to work with talented colleagues in an international research network while building a rewarding career.

Remuneration and employment conditions are in accordance with ETH Zurich regulations, which provide attractive working conditions, opportunities for professional development, and an inspiring campus environment.

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We value diversity and sustainability

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. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future .

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application by 14 November 2025, including the following documents:

Cover letter (including motivation, earliest possible start date, and confirmation that you can work full-time)

Diplomas and work certificates

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the start date is upon agreement, preferably as soon as possible. Please note that we only accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications sent via email or post will not be considered.

For questions regarding the position (but not for submitting applications), please contact Ms. Joelle Robinson (E-Mail schreiben).

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.