Program Description 2026

The position offers a finishing doctoral student or recent PhD graduate with a track-record of excellence and creativity the opportunity to work as an independent principal investigator heading a small team to conduct innovative research in any area of the life sciences. Nominations of women are particularly encouraged.

ELISIR scholars have an independent research budget, access to state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure, plus a mentorship program. The position is an attractive springboard for scientific and career development.  ELISIR scholars are not tenured and appointed for an initial period of 3 years, which is renewable for another 2 years after a scientific and financial evaluation. ELISIR scholars have the opportunity to seek additional external funding.

The vibrant interdisciplinary research community at the EPFL School of Life Sciences fosters interactions with allied disciplines on campus, including engineering, physics, chemistry and computer sciences. EPFL offers an English-speaking work environment, and competitive salaries and benefits. EPFL strives to increase the diversity of its principal investigators and strongly encourages women to apply.

Visit EPFL and School of Life Sciences for additional information.