Postdoctoral Researcher in the Parasitology

The newly founded Cryptosporidium lab at the Institute of Parasitology focuses on the genetic and transcriptomic basis of parasite virulence and persistence in Cryptosporidium and is committed to inclusive mentoring and supportive lab culture. We are looking for a highly qualified and creative postdoctoral fellow to investigate virulence and persistence in the apicomplexan parasite Cryptosporidium.
We offer a supportive and collaborative environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a focus on high-quality and reproducible science. The Institute of Parasitology (Vetsuisse Faculty and Medical Faculty) is one of the major hubs of parasitology research in Switzerland and offers outstanding research infrastructure. The University of Zurich and ETH Zurich form a nucleus for research and innovation in the centre of Europe. The salary will be competitive and in accordance with the University’s guidelines. The initial contract will be for one year with possible extension for another 3 years.

The project the postdoc will work on is focused on understanding how some parasite strains can infect a host and persist for months, whereas other strains are cleared by the immune system after two weeks. The aim of the project is to compare infection between phenotypically different strains in mice on a single cell level and analyse differences between parasites and infected host cells. The postdoc will use bulk and single cell RNAseq approaches followed by experimental studies for validation. It is a multifaceted project that allows the postdoc to dive into an open field of discovery and to learn a broad spectrum of techniques, ranging from bioinformatics and genetic engineering to molecular biology and immunology. Training and skill development are a core part of the project and the project is suitable for candidates with strengths in either wet lab or computational work.

We are looking for a team player with excellent communication skills and a strong interest in studying host-parasite interactions. Applicants should have a doctorate in biology, with a focus on molecular biology and genetics and experience in bioinformatics. A background in infectious diseases is a plus (ideally: parasitology).
Applications from women, minorities, first-generation academics, and international candidates are encouraged.

Information on your application

Informal enquiries, including questions about workload, visa and work-permit regulations, living in Switzerland, or family compatibility (i.e. family policies or parental leave), are very welcome and should be made to Dr. Sebastian Shaw. Full applications (motivation letter, CV, diplomas, publication list, name and contact information of two referees) should be sent via the “apply now” button below until 12th April 2026.