Postdoctoral Researcher position in Animal Nutrition in Zürich

The Animal Nutrition group within the Institute of Agricultural Sciences at ETH Zurich investigates nutrient digestion metabolism, and nutritional physiology.  The group applies hypothesis-driven experimental approaches and data-driven approaches to better understand the biological function of livestock animals and to develop strategies for improving the sustainability of livestock systems. We are looking for a motivated, team-oriented researcher who is eager to go beyond the state-of-the-art and work on cutting-edge research projects. The position is based at ETH Zurich, Switzerland. You will join the Animal Nutrition group led by Mutian Niu. 

This is a full-time position with an anticipated start date of August 1st, 2024 (negotiable).

The position will be involved in and responsible for ruminant nutrition animal research in the following research foci of the group:

• the role of nutrition in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and nitrogen excretions, and improving nutrient utilization efficiency of ruminant animals,
• the role of nutrition in enhancing the efficiency of milk production and milk quality of dairy cows,
• the role of nutrition in mitigating the negative impact of climate change (e.g., heat stress) on dairy cattle (e.g., production efficiency, behavioral and physiological responses, etc.).

depending on the interests of the candidate, the position may also contribute to several other research foci of the group, including but not limited to,

• the development of non-invasive breath biomarkers for a better understanding of metabolic pathways, health assessment, and early detection of health impairment in animals,
• a better understanding of the animals’ physiological and behavioral responses related to the environment and the functionalities of complex microbial ecosystems, utilizing mathematical and statistical modeling methods,
• embracing precision livestock farming technologies (e.g., wearable sensors, computer vision, etc.) and cutting-edge artificial intelligence to better monitor animals and improve farm management.

Our group also contributes to large international collaborative projects such as the Global Research Alliance (GRA) Feed Additive Flagship Project. We have ongoing collaborations with international partners such as the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI; Kenya), the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT; Colombia), the United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS; U.S.), Deschambault Animal Science Research Centre (CRSAD; Canada), China Agricultural University (CAU; China), and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS; China).

You should have a strong interest in ruminant nutrition, nutrient digestion and metabolism, and nutritional physiology. Experience with animal experimentation is required. Must be able to work independently and as a team. You should have a PhD or equivalent doctorate in an appropriate field that is related to the advertised position. The advertised position is also available to more senior researchers (e.g., those who already have postdoctoral experience). The writing of scientific papers and participation in international conferences require good knowledge of English.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and collaborative researcher who is eager to:

• contribute to ongoing cutting-edge research projects,
• support the projects of doctoral students,
• develop and implement her/his own research ideas.

Except for the above-mentioned research areas, many research directions are possible, as the advertised position is not bound to a particular research project. Active participation in international conferences is very much supported.

Our group contributes to the teaching in the study program Agricultural Sciences at ETH. Depending on the seniority and prior experience of the candidate, a contribution to supervising the Bachelor or Master thesis, teaching existing courses, or the development of novel complementary offerings is expected.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.