Head of Mass Spectrometry

The University of Zurich seeks a Senior Head of Mass Spectrometry to lead its MS platform operations, drive method development, and mentor researchers in Zürich, Switzerland.

This senior role is responsible for managing the daily functions of the mass spectrometry platform while advancing analytical techniques for metabolomics and isotope tracing. The position focuses on improving workflow efficiency, ensuring data integrity, and supporting the broader research community through technical expertise and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily platform activities, including scheduling, quality assurance, and sample processing for metabolomics and isotope tracing workflows.
• Develop and refine LC-MS/MS methods for stable isotope tracing, metabolomics, RNA modifications, and lipid analysis, including work with in vivo and patient samples.
• Guarantee data quality and reproducibility through strict quality control measures and detailed documentation.
• Collaborate on creating automated sample preparation processes to boost throughput and consistency.
• Help design the data acquisition and processing systems for Orbitrap Astral instruments.
• Maintain mass spectrometry equipment to peak performance levels and manage service agreements and supplies.
• Participate in developing single-cell mass spectrometry methods as part of the lab's technology goals.
• Engage in research projects from planning and data analysis to manuscript preparation.
• Train and guide graduate students, postdocs, and collaborators in mass spectrometry techniques and experimental design.
• Advise on future equipment purchases and contribute to grant applications for infrastructure funding.
• Represent the platform in collaborations within the Zurich life sciences community.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field, with a strong background in mass spectrometry.
• Practical experience with high-resolution LC-MS platforms, preferably Orbitrap-based systems.
• Proven track record in stable isotope tracing and/or metabolomics within biological research.
• Ability to develop and optimize analytical methods from scratch.
• Experience or strong interest in laboratory automation, including liquid handling systems and workflow scripting.
• Experience mentoring or teaching mass spectrometry techniques to non-specialists.
• Strong publication record demonstrating independent scientific contributions.
• Fluency in English.

Nice to have

• Interest or experience in single-cell mass spectrometry technologies.
• Experience running or co-running a core or research facility.
• German language skills.

What the company offers

• The University of Zurich provides a wide range of attractive employee benefits.

About the company

The University of Zurich is Switzerland's largest university, employing around 10,000 people and offering 12 professional apprenticeship streams. It provides an inspiring working environment focused on cutting-edge research and top-class education.

• Switzerland's largest university with a diverse range of positions.
• Inspiring working environment centered on cutting-edge research and top-class education.
• Employs around 10,000 people and offers 12 professional apprenticeship streams.