Department of Chemistry

PhD Student position in Drug Discovery targeting Natural Products 80 %

Start of employment ideally as soon as possible

There is an opening for a PhD student position in Dr. Simon Sieber's research group at the Department of Chemistry, University of Zurich. His group focuses on developing analytical methods for the rapid and selective identification of natural products. The project involves synthesizing chemoselective probes to improve the discovery process of new natural products. This interdisciplinary approach combines Organic and Analytical Chemistry with Metabolomics. More information about the research group is available on their website.

We offer an ambitious project in a highly stimulating environment with state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure. The successful applicant will have unique opportunities to build a strong interdisciplinary portfolio, promoting personal and professional growth.

Your responsibilities

The candidate will work in a highly international and stimulating environment, supported by a research group with diverse skills in organic and analytical chemistry. You will be welcomed into a collaborative team where your responsibilities will include:

From biomass to chemical identity:
  • Synthesize chemical probes
  • Extract natural products
  • Analyze results using a UHPLC-HRMS system
  • Elucidate the structure of compounds
  • Perform bioassays

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated, highly initiative candidate to work on an interdisciplinary project. The ideal candidate holds a master's degree in chemistry with a strong background in Analytical and Organic Chemistry. Previous experience in natural product isolation and metabolomics will be considered a strong advantage. Fluency in English is required, as well as excellent communication and writing skills.

Information on your application

Please submit your application containing your Curriculum Vitae, a motivation letter, and the contact details of two referees as one PDF file by February 3, 2026.

What we offer

Our employees benefit from a wide range of attractive offers. More

What we offer

Work-Life Balance
  • Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
  • Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH


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Learning and Development
  • Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
  • Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

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Food
  • Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
  • Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

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Healthcare
  • Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
  • Free seasonal flu vaccinations
  • Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

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Discounts
  • Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
  • Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
  • Special conditions on hotel reservations

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Conditions of Employment
  • Policies of the UZH
  • Most UZH staff are employed according to public law


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International Services
  • Support for people from outside Switzerland

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Campuses
  • Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
  • Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

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Location

Department of Chemistry

Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland

Further information

Questions about the job

Dr. Simon Sieber Group Leader
Contact Form

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Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
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Please apply via our job portal www.jobs.uzh.ch.

Working at UZH

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer! More
UZH