NOMIS Foundation ETH Postdoctoral Fellowship

About the role

The NOMIS Foundation–ETH Fellowship Programme supports postdoctoral researchers at ETH Zurich within the Centre for Origin and Prevalence of Life (COPL). It aims to foster young interdisciplinary researchers in the field of the origin and prevalence of life who have shown scientific excellence early in their careers, and to enable independent, fundamental and high-risk interdisciplinary research. The fellowship lasts three years plus one extension year, which is granted only after a review 18 months after the start and must be funded by the host professor(s); up to one new fellow is selected for a start in 2027.

Key responsibilities

• Take part in the Centre's events and in NOMIS events and activities as the schedule permits.
• Establish independent research ties with other members of the network and beyond.
• Participate, to a certain extent, in the teaching activities of the host group, with duties and average load described in the application.
• Contribute to the Centre's interdisciplinary research on the origin and prevalence of life.

Required profile

• PhD thesis submitted; applications within three years of the doctorate are considered, with justified exceptions.
• First postdoctoral experience and/or interdisciplinary training preferred.
• Existing affiliation to an academic or research institution.
• Availability for a remote interview after the initial evaluation.
• A host professor must be a member of the Centre and commit to providing the allowance, additional support and resources for the fourth year.

Application

• Online application by 06 November 2026 via the ETH Zurich Job Board.
• Required documents: signed cover letter, proof of PhD submission, CV with publications, detailed project description, invitation letter from a host professor, ethics form, signed code of conduct and two external reference letters sent by the authors.