Lab assistant position - stable isotope ecology
(60%) / November 2026 or by arrangement
The Plant Physiological Ecology Group in the Department of Environmental Sciences invites applications for a lab assistant position.
We are looking for a lab assistant to join the group in the stable isotope laboratory. This is primarily a mass spectrometry lab, which operates four mass spectrometers and associated elemental analyzers and gas chromatography systems. The lab prepares and analyzes sample materials relevant for a wide range of users within and outside of the University of Basel, with applications ranging from plant and soil ecology, paleoclimate, animal migration, and food/agricultural forensics.
Your position
- Assisting lab users with their work, providing lab instruction to new users
- Preparing samples and reference materials, including methods involving vacuum lines, organic extractions and chromatography, and precision microbalance work
- Participation in lab cleanliness upkeep
- Participation in maintaining lab inventory (ordering consumables, chemicals, gases, etc.)
- Operation and basic maintenance of lab instrumentation
Your profile
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to independently manage time and priorities
- Willingness and capacity to follow clear but detailed written procedures
- Some background in working in a chemistry laboratory (or enviro/bio/geochemistry)
- Computational and quantitative background
- Strong english skills (German language skills are valued but not required)
- Willingness to communicate in written and verbal form
We offer you
A diverse and interesting position in an active international research group. You will have an opportunity to learn a variety of chemical and ecological methods and gain extensive experience working with and maintaining mass spectrometers and chromatography systems. The position does not require extensive pre-existing experience in these areas, but you should be comfortable with general laboratory and computational situations at a basic level. Specific instruction required for the position will be provided gradually during job training, and over time you will have the opportunity to learn numerous new skills. The position will initially be offered at 60% with a duration of 1-2 years to begin in November 2026 or by arrangement subject to your availability, with potential increases in percentage and duration up to a maximum of 4 years depending on funding availability. Salary and social benefits are provided according to University of Basel rules.Please upload your application via our online platform. It should include a motivation letter (maximum 1 page), a CV, copies of relevant degrees, and contact details for three references. The University of Basel is an equal opportunity and family friendly employer committed to excellence through diversity. We especially encourage applications from women and members of underrepresented groups in academic institutions. Review of applications will begin September 7th, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled.
Questions can be addressed by Dr. Daniel Nelson (daniel.nelson@unibas.ch).
