ENAC-PhD Candidate in soil and environmental microbiology (EML)

EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, is one of the most dynamic university campuses in Europe and ranks among the top 20 universities worldwide. The EPFL employs more than 6,500 people supporting the three main missions of the institution: education, research and innovation. The EPFL campus oï¬ ers an exceptional working environment at the heart of a community of more than 17,000 people, including over 12,500 students and 4,000 researchers from more than 120 diï¬ erent countries.

Your mission:

The Environmental Microbiology Laboratory (EML) studies microbial processes in the subsurface with a focus on contaminant transformations and the nitrogen cycle. The research performed at EML aims at understanding fundamental microbial and abiotic processes and at providing science-based solutions to environmental challenges including aquifer contamination, nuclear waste disposal, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Main duties and responsibilities include:

Investigate the role of temperature and precipitation frequency on the soil microbiome and its greenhouse gas emissions Run laboratory experiments using large lysimeters and/or small soil columns

Use meta-omic and geochemical tools to characterize microbial activity

Use statistical methods to analyze the large amount of data generated by the lysimeter experiments participate in general laboratory tasks

Perform first-class scientific research write publications

Attend and present at international conferences

Your profile:

Educational and research background in environmental microbiology and/or environmental science and engineering computer skills: Word, Excel, Powerpoint, some experience with at least one programming language

Language: fluent English

Self-motivation, scientific curiosity, critical thinking and rigor in experiment work good communication skills and ability to work as part of an international team enthusiasm

We offer:

An opportunity to develop a scientific career in environmental microbiology an opportunity to learn high-end techniques and approaches

The opportunity to build a scientific network in the field of microbiology research excellent research conditions and competitive remuneration

A multi-cultural and stimulating scientific environment

Be part of a consortium of microbiologists, the NCCR Microbiomes

Start date: 01.07.2024

Duration: 1-year fixed-term contract that is renewable to 4 years according to EPFL rules

Contact: [email protected]