The Department of Environmental Chemistry (Uchem) of Eawag is offering a position for a

Topic: Toxins and specialized metabolites from cyanobacteria

The position is part of our natural toxins research. Ecosystems are not only vulnerable to anthropogenic pollutants but also to natural toxins. Bioactive compounds produced by cyanobacteria are of particular concern because they are waterborne toxins released directly into surface waters. While much research focuses on blooms in the water column, we lack basic knowledge about benthic cyanobacteria blooms on the sediment, which are responsible for poisoning dogs, also in Switzerland.

The postdoctoral researcherwill join a project team to establish the knowledge base on benthic cyanobacteria in Switzerland. Task 1: generate method guidelines to characterize morphology, chemical, and genetic traits.  Task 2: synthesize existing data from various Swiss sites. Task 3: assess ecotoxicological effects by characterizing specialized metabolites with HRMS/MS and using effect-based analyses with zebrafish embryos and grazer tests. With this project we aim to improve stakeholder communication and public awareness and acceptance of measures protecting human and animal health.

We are looking for excellent candidates holding a PhD with a solid background in cyanobacteria research (benthic and/or planktonic) and analytical chemistry with experience in HRMS/MS. The successful candidate likes to work in an interdisciplinary environment, is fluent in English (working language), is creative and takes initiative in project work. Experiences with compound isolation, toxicity tests, and interest in AI/LLM applications will be additional valuable assets.

Duration of employment

The project is led by Dr. Elisabeth Janssen (Uchem) in collaboration with Dr. Colette vom Berg (Environmental Toxicology, Utox). The period of appointment for the Postdoctoral Researcher is 24 months, starting date as early as June 2026 or as soon as the position can be adequately filled.

At Eawag, we have a working environment in which people with different experiences, strengths, and perspectives can fully contribute and further develop. Here, you can help us advance! We promote genuine participation, exchange, and mutual understanding. We create structures that enable the compatibility of work and other areas of life, such as care work, and continuously make efforts to reduce barriers.

Do you have specific requirements regarding the application process or the position, or do you need additional information? Talk to us about it—we will be happy to support you with possible flexible workplace, working hours, and job design solutions. For further information please visit our website about Eawag as well as our conditions of employment.

Closing date for applications is 8 April 2026, but the screening of applicants will begin immediately. Your application should include a CV, motivation letter, and contacts of 3 references.

For further information, please contact Dr. Elisabeth Janssen, Email: Elisabeth.Janssen@eawag.ch

We look forward to receiving your application.Please send it through this webpage, any other way of applying will not be considered. A click on the link below will take you directly to the application form.