Laboratory Technician (Technical Assistant) in RNA Biology and Disease Mechanisms

The RNA Biology and Disease laboratory at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biophysics (Department of Biology), ETH Zurich, invites applications for a laboratory technician to support its daily research activities and laboratory operations.

The lab studies mammalian gene regulation and RNA processing pathways. Projects rely on a combination of structural, biochemical and cellular assays, including cryo-electron and light microscopy, gene editing, next-generation sequencing, proteomics and reconstitution of large protein-RNA complexes from recombinant proteins. Using these tools the laboratory aims to determine the molecular basis of disease mechanism in order to find novel targets for treatment.

The research group is looking for an open-minded and flexible co-worker. Your work in lab organisation will help to keep the lab running smoothly, while your committed collaboration will support the advancement of our diverse research projects.

As a successful candidate, you will be an active member of the lab and participate in general lab duties and responsibilities. Core tasks include working closely with other lab members to assist their projects, adjusting flexibly to demand. Specifically, you will be carrying out experiments from cloning of constructs to protein expression and purification from bacterial and insect cells. You will culture mammalian tissue culture cell lines, transform them for experiments, generate stable cell lines, and analyse expression patterns e.g.by immunofluorescence, western blotting or RT-qPCR. You will diligently document your lab work including maintaining and updating internal databases. Moreover, you will be responsible to independently organise and coordinate repairs and maintenance of laboratory equipment.

The position is available as of 1.6.2026 or by agreement and initially limited to one year with a possible longer-term perspective contingent on funding availability.

• You have completed an apprenticeship as a laboratory technician, or hold a Master's degree in biochemistry, biology or related fields.
• You have experience in molecular and cell biological, as well as biochemical methods, ideally also in handling RNA.
• Your independent working style and flexibility allow you to support various research projects.
• Your willingness to learn new techniques is high and you like to work precisely.
• You use your initiative and organisational skills to improve daily lab work.
• Fluency in both spoken and written English is required. Good German language skills are desirable.

• A stimulating position in a welcoming, motivated, international team, which performs fundamental biochemical research.
• An innovative work environment, where you can apply your strengths to advance basic research, learn new skills and employ state-of-the-art techniques.
• A vibrant workplace at ETH Campus on Hönggerberg close to Zurich.
• Excellent working conditions of ETH with numerous benefits , such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by ASVZ , childcare , and attractive pension benefits .

Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society.

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

• Letter of motivation (one page)
• CV including the contact details for two references
• Transcripts of record (highest degree)
• Certificates and diplomas relevant for the position
• Letters of recommendation from previous employers [Arbeitszeugnisse] (if available)

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

Further information about the research group can be found on our  website . Any other inquiries should be addressed to Prof. Stefanie Jonas, stefanie.jonas [at] mol.biol.ethz.ch (no applications).

For recruitment services the  GTC of ETH Zurich  apply.