This PhD project involves the development of a high-precision, mid-IR laser spectrometer for the detection of specific trace-compounds in human breath. The primary scientific aim is the selective and sensitive detection of gaseous organic molecules that are relevant in medical applications. This work is part of the “Zürich Exhalomics” flagship project, and the successful candidate will be enrolled at ETH Zurich, co-supervised by Prof. Dr. R. Zenobi. The PhD student will thus benefit from a broad expertise in trace gas detection, and breath research. Job description, responsibilities and tasksDevelopment and application of quantum cascade laser spectroscopy for the detection of trace gases in human breathMethod validation and intercomparison with state-of-the-art mass spectrometry and gas chromatographyCollaboration with the Children's Hospital Zurich during a clinical studyData analysis, interpretation, and presentation at international conferences