Open PhD position in NCCR Genesis: On the rise of molecular complexity at the Origin of Life
The National Centre of Competence in Research NCCR Genesis is a research infrastructure project funded by SNSF focussing on exploring the emergence of life in the Universe.

This interdisciplinary research infrastructure of the NCCR Genesis brings together physicists, earth and planetary scientists, chemists and biologists to understand the conditions and the mechanisms that enable life to emerge. Developing reliable methods to detect reliable traces of life (biosignatures) – whether through remote sensing or direct on-site measurements – requires significant innovation. These challenges demand close collaboration across physics, biology, chemistry and the earth sciences. NCCR Genesis does not aim to provide answers in all fields, but to drive innovative research and achieve decisive progress.

Further details on NCCR Genesis are available on its website https://nccr-genesis.ch.

The successful candidate will investigate the emergence of molecular complexity from simple building blocks, such as amino acids and nucleotides, toward self-replicating chemical systems. The project will focus on peptide amyloids and their interactions with RNA and membranes, with the long-term goal of understanding the emergence of proto-ribosomal machinery.

Starting date: Fall 2026 or by mutual agreement. There is no deadline and the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. 

The PhD candidate will join the Riek Group at ETH Zurich, within the Institute of Molecular Physical Science, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences (D-CHAB).

• Applicants with a Master's degree should have a strong background in experimental chemistry, ideally with experience in physical and/or organic chemistry, and a keen interest in interdisciplinary research.
• You enjoy working in a team, possess the necessary social skills and communication abilities, and contribute proactively to a positive group atmosphere.
• Fluent communication skills (written and presentation) in English are essential.

• A fully funded PhD position for approximately four years at a world-leading university, offering an outstanding scientific and collaborative research environment.
• As part of an enthusiastic and interdisciplinary team, you will engage in cutting-edge research with access to state-of-the-art laboratories and experimental facilities. The position supports the development of critical thinking, data analysis, problem-solving, and project management skills while providing opportunities to publish in leading journals and present at international conferences.
• You can also expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits, and ETH Zürich is actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university

NCCR Genesis is deeply committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. Our aim is to cultivate a respectful and fair work culture with equal access to professional development and support for all. We strongly encourage applications from under-represented groups.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• CV
• Motivation letter (max. 1 page) explaining your interest in the raise of molecular complexity in the origin of life. 
• Copies of available BSc/MSc diplomas or current transcripts.
• Contact details of 2 referees (please inform them that they might get contacted).

For more information about the Riek Group, please visit our Website. Questions regarding the position should be directed via email to Prof. Dr. Roland Riek ([email protected]).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiter and not by artificial intelligence.