PhD Student Position in Stomatal Immunity and Metabolism

The Santelia lab at ETH Zurich is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join our research team on a project about stomatal immunity and metabolism.

Stomata are tiny pores on the leaf surface that regulate gas exchange and plant productivity, but also serve as natural entry points for plant and human pathogens. While stomata close rapidly in response to microbial signals, the metabolic mechanisms enabling this response remain poorly understood. This project aims to uncover how immune signalling reprograms metabolism in guard cells to drive stomatal closure and restrict pathogen entry.

Research focus:

• Molecular genetics in Arabidopsisto dissect key signaling components linking immune perception to metabolic regulation
• Phosphoproteomics and targeted metabolite analysis to identify metabolic switches activated during microbial exposure
• Comparative genome editing experiments in lettuceto translate mechanistic insights from Arabidopsis into an agriculturally relevant crop system

The student will investigate how microbial elicitors trigger specific metabolic adjustments in guard cells, how these changes influence ion fluxes and osmotic regulation, and how pathogens may circumvent this barrier. The project integrates cell biology, biochemistry, plant immunity, and translational crop research.

The long-term goal is to identify metabolic control points that can be leveraged to strengthen natural plant defenses and reduce pathogen entry into leafy vegetables, contributing to sustainable agriculture and improved food safety.

• Conduct independent research under the supervision of senior researchers
• Design and perform experiments, analyse data, and interpret results
• Prepare and present research findings at scientific conferences and in peer-reviewed journals
• Collaborate with other team members and contribute to the overall research goals

• A Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Plant Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field
• Strong interest in plant molecular mechanisms and cellular regulation
• Experience with molecular biology techniques and/or plant genetics
• Motivation to work independently while contributing to a collaborative research environment
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Experience in Arabidopsis, microscopy, or omics approaches is an advantage but not required

• A dynamic and supportive research environment
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities at ETH Zurich
• Training in advanced molecular, biochemical, and imaging approaches
• Integration into a vibrant international plant science community
• The opportunity to contribute to research with tangible societal impact in sustainable agriculture and food safety

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ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.