2025 Scholarship in Virology and Immunology, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich [Study In Switzerland]

The Institute of Medical Virology is offering three fully-funded PhD studentships for 2025. The positions are ideal for candidates with strong backgrounds in molecular biology, virology, or immunology, aiming to contribute to cutting-edge research. These studentships provide an excellent opportunity to work with leading experts in HIV immunology, influenza viruses, and the interferon system.

SCHOLARSHIP AT A GLANCE:

Category Details
Scholarship Provider Institute of Medical Virology, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich
Eligible Fields Molecular Biology, Virology, Immunology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedicine
Degree Required Master’s degree in Life Sciences
Research Focus HIV immunology, Influenza viruses, Interferon system
Supervisors Prof. Alexandra Trkola, Prof. Silke Stertz, Prof. Benjamin G. Hale
Rewards Fully-funded positions with annual salary (CHF 47,040 – CHF 55,000)
Additional Benefits Enrollment in Life Science Zurich Graduate School, Access to state-of-the-art facilities
Duration 4-5 years
Application Deadline November 1, 2024
How to Apply Direct application to Life Science Zurich Graduate School, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich (Microbiology and Immunology PhD program)

Fact About The ETH Zurich

  1. Nobel Heritage: ETH Zurich has produced an impressive 22 Nobel laureates, including Albert Einstein, who was a professor at ETH Zurich from 1911 to 1915.
  2. Birthplace of Relativity: Albert Einstein developed his groundbreaking Theory of Relativity while working at the Swiss Patent Office in Bern, but he refined it during his time at ETH Zurich.
  3. Top-ranked University: ETH Zurich consistently ranks among the top universities globally, holding the #6 spot in the QS World University Rankings 2022.
  4. Science Powerhouse: ETH Zurich is responsible for over 400 patents and 180 spin-off companies, making it one of the most innovative universities in the world.
  5. Alumni Network: ETH Zurich’s alumni include 20 billionaires, 10 Nobel laureates, and numerous CEOs of top companies like Nestle, ABB, and Credit Suisse.
  6. Cutting-edge Research: ETH Zurich is at the forefront of cutting-edge research, with breakthroughs in fields like quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy.
  7. Sustainability Leader: ETH Zurich aims to be carbon neutral by 2030 and has implemented numerous sustainable practices, earning it a “GreenMetric” ranking as one of the world’s most sustainable universities.
  8. International Hub: With over 30% international students and 120 nationalities represented, ETH Zurich is a melting pot of cultures and ideas.
  9. Historic Roots: Founded in 1855, ETH Zurich has a rich history, with its iconic main building designed by architect Gottfried Semper, who also designed the Vienna State Opera.
  10. Future-focused Education: ETH Zurich offers interdisciplinary programs and innovative teaching methods, ensuring students are equipped to tackle the complex challenges of the 21st century.

Eligibility For 2025 Scholarship in Virology and Immunology, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich

  • Master’s degree (recent or soon to be awarded) in Life Sciences (e.g., Molecular Biology, Virology, Immunology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedicine).
  • Previous relevant research experience in Life Sciences.
  • Motivation and commitment to advancing molecular virology and immunology research.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Description For 2025 Scholarship in Virology and Immunology, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich

Successful candidates will join one of the following research groups:

  1. Prof. Alexandra Trkola — Focus: HIV immunology and vaccine design.
  2. Prof. Silke Stertz — Focus: Molecular biology of influenza viruses and respiratory virus transmission.
  3. Prof. Benjamin G. Hale — Focus: Molecular biology of the interferon system in health and disease.

Each student will develop and contribute to a high-impact research project in one of these areas. Students will have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, technical training, and supervision within a dynamic and internationally recognized research environment.

Rewards For 2025 Scholarship in Virology and Immunology, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich

  • Fully-funded positions with an annual salary of CHF 47,040 – CHF 55,000.
  • Enrollment in the Life Science Zurich Graduate School (ETH Zurich and University of Zurich).
  • Participation in the Microbiology and Immunology PhD program.
  • Access to high-quality research facilities, including modern molecular virology and immunology labs and a Biosafety Level 3 lab.
  • High-quality supervision and mentoring, with PhD completion times of 4-5 years.
  • Opportunities to present research at national and international conferences.

How To Apply For 2025 Scholarship in Virology and Immunology, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich

Applications must be made directly to the Life Science Zurich Graduate School of the ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich. Please select the Microbiology and Immunology (MIM)program as the primary PhD program and clearly express your scientific motivations to join one of the specific research groups when describing your future research interests. Last Date To Apply is November 1, 2024