Fully funded PhD Computer Science & AI Switzerland 20 days left

Doctoral Student in Computational Chemistry

ETH Zürich, Switzerland

Institution
ETH Zürich
Country
Switzerland
Position type
PhD
Subject area
Computer Science & AI
Application deadline
30 September 2026
Location
Zürich, CH
Funding
Fully funded position

Want to be the strongest applicant for this position?

Book a free 15-minute call with our team. We will look at your profile against what ETH Zürich is actually looking for, and tell you honestly where you stand and what to strengthen before you apply.

Book a free call about this position →

No cost, no obligation. Mentors who have secured funded PhD positions themselves.

We mentor STEM applicants only. If your research aspirations are outside STEM subjects, you're very welcome to use this board and apply directly; we just aren't the right people to mentor you.

About this position

// Alert::widget() ?

chevron_left Übersicht

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Prof. Dr. Sereina Riniker’s group for Computational Chemistry at the Institute of Molecular Physical Science is interested in the development of methodology for classical molecular dynamics simulations and cheminformatics, and in the application of those methods to address challenging biological and chemical questions.

Project background

The main Doctroal project will be in collaboration with a pharmaceutical company and an experimental academic lab focusing on cyclic peptides, protein-binding affinity, and cell permeability.

Job description

  • The project will involve molecular dynamics (MD) simulations including enhanced sampling techniques as well as machine learning.

Profile

  • Applicants should hold a M.Sc. in computational chemistry, chemistry, biochemistry, or physics.
  • Experiences with molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, machine learning, and strong programming skills (Python) are highly advantageous.
  • Proficiency in English.
  • Good communication skills.
  • Good social competence.

We welcome self-motivated candidates with outstanding academic record, excellent communication skills and professional integrity to apply.

Workplace

We offer

The project offers research and training in computational chemistry and computer-aided drug design. Group members will not only have the opportunities to work with cutting-edge resources in a collaborative environment but also to co-work with international faculty and researchers in academia and industry, stimulating creative ideas and research opportunities.

chevron_right Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application until September 30, 2026 with the following documents:

  • Statement of interest
  • Comprehensive CV and publication list
  • Names and contact information of two references
  • Copies of degree certificates and transcripts

Further information about the Computational Chemistry Group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Dr. Sereina Riniker (sriniker@ethz.ch) (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Because the project involves collaborating with other humans, we expect you to be able to communicate effectively on your own. Please do not use any AI assistance other than proofreading tools when preparing your application for this position.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

Preferred starting date: early 2027.

About ETH Zürich

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.

Apply directly to ETH Zürich

Emerging Scholars Council is not the employer and does not recruit for this position. It is advertised by ETH Zürich, and your application goes to them. We help students prepare and strengthen their applications.

Go to the official application page →

Applications close 30 September 2026.

Contact listed in the advert

Some positions — especially in Germany, Austria and Switzerland — are filled by writing directly to the supervisor rather than through an online form. These addresses were taken from the advert text, so check them against the official listing before you write.

A cold email to a supervisor is the highest-leverage thing you can send — and the easiest to get wrong. Ask us to look at yours before you hit send.

Other funded positions you might like

Browse all open positions →
Book a free call