Student Research Assistant in Biocommunication, Zürich (Kreis 11)

Student Research Assistant in Biocommunication The position is offered in the

Biocommunication Group at ETH Zurich , led by Professor Consuelo De Moraes. Our group investigates plant-insect interactions using behavioral, chemical, and molecular approaches. We are looking for a motivated student to support a research project on flowering responses in different plant species following bumblebee-inflicted leaf damage.

In this position, you will work alongside a PhD student conducting flowering assays with different plant species. The project involves both plant maintenance and experimental work with bumblebees, including bee-damage treatments. The role is well-suited to a reliable and organized student who enjoys hands‑on work with plants, insects, and greenhouse experiments.

After completing the required training, you will be able to carry out routine tasks with increasing independence. We aim to provide as much flexibility as possible regarding working hours and days. Occasional weekend work might be required.

The job mainly involves:

Cleaning, organizing, and preparing experimental equipment

Potting, watering, and maintaining plants

Bumblebee rearing

Preparing experimental setups for bumblebee damage treatments

Assisting with the execution and monitoring of experiments

Supporting general laboratory and greenhouse maintenance

Workload:

approximately 15-18 hours per month, corresponding to a 10‑30% position, usually consisting of 3‑4 hours spread flexibly over the week

Start date:

beginning of June

Duration:

6 months, with the possibility of extension to a year

All work will take place on the ETH Zurich campus, primarily in the LFO building and the LFG greenhouse. Occasional work may also take place in the experimental garden located outside near LFW.

Profile

Comfortable working with bumblebees and no known allergy to bee stings

Reliable, careful and well organized

Willingness to work in laboratory, greenhouse, and occasional outdoor experimental settings

We offer

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

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us– we are consistently working towards a climate‑neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

#J-18808-Ljbffr