Laboratory technician in microbiology and microbial ecology

Introduction

UNIL is a leading international teaching and research institution, with over 5,000 employees and 17,000 students split between its Dorigny campus, CHUV and Epalinges. As an employer, UNIL encourages excellence, individual recognition and responsibility. Ideally situated along the lake of Geneva, near Lausanne's city center, its campus brings together over 120 nationalities.

Presentation

The Pacheco Lab (pachecolab.com) in the Department of Fundamental Microbiology at the University of Lausanne offers a position as a laboratory technician in microbiology and microbial ecology.

Job information

Expected start date: flexible, earliest 01 January 2026
Contract length: 1 year, renewable if funding is available
Activity rate: 100%
Workplace: University of Lausanne, Dorigny Campus

Your responsibilities

The Pacheco Lab carries out interdisciplinary research in the field of microbe-microbe and plant-microbe interactions. We study how species-specific metabolic traits contribute to the assembly of complex microbial communities and their interaction networks. By integrating computational, in vitro, and plant experimental approaches, we seek to uncover general principles governing community coexistence and stability, in order to advance applications for host and environmental health.
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented research technician with experience in experimental microbiology. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing research projects focused on characterizing the metabolic traits of individual bacterial strains and microbial communities, as well as assembling and analyzing complex communities in vitro.
In addition to experimental work, the technician will play a key role in laboratory management. Responsibilities include maintaining inventory, helping to manage procurement of supplies and reagents, and supporting the smooth operation of daily lab activities. This dual role offers an opportunity to engage in hands-on research while contributing to the organizational and operational efficiency of the lab.

Your qualifications

- An apprenticeship certificate (C.F.C), a Bachelor of Science (or higher) in microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, or a related field
- Hands-on experience with experimental microbiology techniques (e.g., culturing, aseptic technique, microbial community assembly)
- Familiarity with basic molecular biology methods (e.g., DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis).
- Experience working in a research laboratory setting
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Proficiency with standard office and data management software
- Proficiency in written and spoken English, knowledge of French is also desirable
- Strong personal drive for scientific research, a curious nature, and the capability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a growing interdisciplinary team

What the post offers you

You will join a new and highly motivated interdisciplinary research group focused on understanding and engineering microbial interactions for host health and sustainability applications. Located in the Biophore building overlooking Lake Geneva and the Alps, our lab is embedded within the vibrant and international research environment of the Department of Fundamental Microbiology at the University of Lausanne. Our state-of-the-art biology and computational lab space is supported by UNIL's excellent research infrastructure (e.g., computing cluster and sequencing, metabolomics, and microscopy facilities) and a collaborative network of leading researchers in microbial ecology, computational biology, sustainable agriculture, and medicine (e.g., NCCR Microbiomes, Department of Ecology and Evolution, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, EPFL, and CHUV). UNIL is deeply integrated within the broader Lausanne community and region, which offers ample opportunities for professional training and a rich cultural life.
Please visit our website for more information on our group, research interests, and publications:

Contact for further information

Prof. Alan Pacheco:

Your application

Application deadline: Review of applications will start immediately until the position is filled.
Please include your full application in PDF format, including a motivation letter, a CV with grades, a short description of previous research, and the contact information of two references.
Only applications through this website will be considered.

Specifications

Complementary information

Seeking to promote an equitable representation of men and women among its staff, the University of Lausanne encourages applications from women.