PhD position in microbial synthetic biology

Introduction

UNIL is a leading international teaching and research institution, with over 5,000 employees and 15,500 students split between its Dorigny campus, CHUV and Epalinges. As an employer, UNIL encourages excellence, individual recognition and responsibility.

Presentation

The Schaerli lab offers a PhD position in microbial synthetic biology at the Department of Fundamental Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Switzerland. 
The Schaerli lab carries out interdisciplinary research at the interface between synthetic biology and microbiology. We are seeking a highly motivated PhD position to work on a collaborative project within the frame of the National Centre of Competence Research (NCCR) Microbiomes .

Job information

Expected start date in position: 01.09.2026 or upon agreement
Contract length: 1 year, maximum 4 years
Activity rate: 100%
Workplace: University of Lausanne

Your responsibilities

The selected candidate will join the Schaerli group to drive collaborative research within the national NCCR Microbiomes consortium. Building on our recent work ( Chhun et al., BioRxiv, 2025 ), you will design, construct, test, and apply bacterial biosensors and develop novel genetic tools. Your focus will be on detecting metabolites and environmental signals across diverse systems, including the honey bee and mouse gut.

Your qualifications

We are seeking candidates with a Master’s degree in life sciences or biology and expertise in synthetic biology, microbiology, or molecular biology. The project is part of the NCCR Microbiomes ; therefore, a strong interest in the broader field of microbiomes, extending beyond microbial synthetic biology, is essential. Experience with molecular cloning, flow cytometry, and microscopy is advantageous. The projects will involve animal experiments with bees and/or mice, conducted in collaboration with partner laboratories; therefore, the candidate should be willing to perform or assist with such experiments. 
A strong command of written and spoken English, a high level of motivation for scientific research, curiosity, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team are essential.

What the post offers you

We offer a supportive and stimulating environment, with access to excellent experimental facilities. The environment is highly international and interdisciplinary, and all activities are conducted in English. In addition to training within the host laboratory, the position offers extensive opportunities for collaboration and continuous professional development, particularly through the NCCR Microbiomes network. The position offers a competitive salary. Our department is situated on a beautiful campus at the shore of Lake Geneva with a great view of the Alps.

Contact for further information

Prof. Yolanda Schaerli: yolanda.schaerli at unil.ch

Your application

Application deadline: 24.05.2026
Please apply through the UNIL Job website and include your full application (motivation letter, CV with months and years and contact details of three referees) as pdf. Only applications through this website will be taken into account.

Complementary 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.
unil.ch/egalite
unil.ch/familles
unil.ch/graduatecampus