Laboratory Technician

The Thomàde laboratory at EPFL is seeking a motivated laboratory technician to support various research projects in the field of drug discovery. You will work within a team of postdoctoral researchers developing "molecular glue" type compounds. This work includes the development and optimisation of high-throughput in vitro and in vivo screenings, as well as the early stages of drug discovery, notably the optimisation of initial active molecules into lead candidates ("hit-to-lead"). If you wish to join a team working on interesting scientific projects likely to lead to practical applications, we invite you to submit your application.

Within our research team, you will provide experimental support to various projects. Your responsibilities will notably include:

• Conducting molecular biology experiments, including DNA cloning, plasmid preparation, and construct validation
• Participating in mammalian and insect cell culture work, including routine maintenance of cultures and transfections
• Contributing to the development and implementation of cellular or molecular screening assays
• Preparing samples and reagents, and maintaining accurate experimental records
• Analysing experimental results and identifying potential technical issues
• Participating in the management of common laboratory stocks, equipment maintenance, and maintaining a clean and well-organised working environment
• Coordinating experiments and priorities with several researchers
• Contributing positively to the scientific and social life of the laboratory

You are a motivated, reliable, and curious laboratory professional who enjoys learning new techniques and working within a collaborative research team. You perform experiments carefully, adopt a critical approach in your work, and are able to work independently once trained.

You must have the following qualifications:

• Training in biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related discipline
• Previous practical laboratory experience
• A good understanding of good laboratory practices, particularly regarding rigour and sterility
• The ability to follow established protocols precisely and reproducibly
• The ability to organise your work, manage multiple tasks, and clearly document experiments
• A thoughtful and systematic approach to experimental work, especially when conducting screenings
• Good communication skills and a collegial attitude, oriented towards teamwork
• A willingness to learn new methods and adapt to the needs of different projects
  A good command of English

Experience in one or more of the following areas would be an asset:

• Gateway, Gibson cloning, or restriction enzyme-based cloning techniques
• Mammalian and insect cell culture techniques
• Microbiology techniques
• Cellular or molecular screening techniques
• Flow cytometry or fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS)

Candidates are not expected to master all the techniques listed above. Training will be provided. Motivation, reliability, scientific curiosity, and the ability to become a fully engaged member of the laboratory are essential qualities for this position.

EPFL is located in French-speaking Switzerland, on the shores of Lake Geneva, and offers:

• Excellent international working conditions within a multidisciplinary, cutting-edge team, with access to world-class infrastructure
• A young, dynamic, flexible, and highly motivated research group
• Training in relevant molecular and cellular biology techniques
• Competitive salary and social benefits
• A rich cultural environment, vibrant campus and urban life, as well as numerous outdoor activity opportunities

Start date: 01/09/2026

Minimum employment rate: 80.00

Maximum employment rate: 100.00

Contract type: Fixed-term

Duration: 1 year

Reference: 2343