PhD Position in Metabolomics

Introduction

UNIL is a leading international teaching and research institution, with over 5,000 employees and 17,000 students split between its Dorigny campus, CHUV and Epalinges. As an employer, UNIL encourages excellence, individual recognition and responsibility.

Presentation

The Metabolomics & Lipidomics team at the University of Lausanne is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join an interdisciplinary project. The goal is to generate a comprehensive qualitative and quantitative atlas of the microbiome-derived metabolome and lipidome across several human biofluids (e.g., blood plasma, breast milk, stool), using cutting-edge metabolomic and lipidomic approaches (both untargeted and targeted).

Project Description

While the genomes of thousands of organisms have been sequenced, the chemical landscape of organismal metabolomes has yet to be systematically characterized. To complement genomic data and advance our understanding of metabolism, biology, and evolution, there is an urgent need for more complete annotation of model organism metabolomes—particularly the metabolites and pathways implicated in host–microbiome interactions. Such insights are essential for deciphering the biological roles of metabolites and understanding their impact on health and disease. Beyond serving as fuels and building blocks, metabolites—especially those derived from the microbiome—function as potent signaling molecules that regulate cell metabolism, growth, proliferation, and survival.

In this context, we propose a long-term project aimed at systematically characterizing the microbiome-derived polar and lipid metabolome (e.g., short-chain fatty acids, bile acids, sphingolipids, lipoamino acids, tryptophan, phenylalanine and tyrosine derivatives, polyamines) across several biological matrices (analyzed regularly at our platform) derived from different model systems.

To maximize annotation success, we have implemented advanced technological and computational resources, including the latest-generation ultra-high-resolution Orbitrap IQ-X Tribrid mass spectrometer. This cutting-edge instrument, with its unprecedented resolution, versatile MS acquisition and fragmentation modes, and real-time matching against available libraries, overcomes major technical bottlenecks and significantly advances metabolite annotation and identification. Data acquisition will rely on state-of-the-art untargeted metabolomic and lipidomic workflows using liquid chromatography-assisted separation.

Job information

Deadline for application: October 1st, 2025

Project start date: January 1st 2026

Employment fraction: 100%

Duration of the position: 4 years

Your responsibilities

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Perform data acquisition using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS)


• Carry out data processing, metabolite/lipid annotation, and analysis


• Proactively explore data using multiple processing software tools and integrated libraries

We are looking for an independent, curious, and motivated researcher eager to contribute to this ambitious project at the interface of metabolomics/lipidomics, and microbiome research.

Your qualifications

• Master’s in analytical chemistry / biochemistry


• Practical experience in laboratory work, and in particular the experience with liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry will be considered as an important advantage


• Experience with polar and lipid metabolite annotation


• Knowledge and understanding of biochemistry are useful merits


• Commitment and capacity to work effectively in an international and multidisciplinary team


• Excellent communication skills in English (spoken and written)

What the position offers you

We offer a nice working place in a multicultural, diverse and dynamic academic environment. Opportunities for professional training, a lot of activities and other benefits to discover.

Contact for further information

Mrs Julijana Ivanisevic

Head of Metabolomics Platform

Phone number : +41 21 692 50 98

Your application

Deadline : 01.10.2025

Please, send your full application in Word or PDF.
Only applications through this website will be taken into account.

We thank you for your understanding.

Additional information

UNIL is committed to:
•    equality, diversity and inclusion within its community;
•    ensuring an open and respectful environment that is conducive to personal development;
•    offering working conditions that facilitate work-life balance;
•    supporting early career researchers.

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