Postdoctoral Position – Explore gene expression in healthy and diseased human neuronal networks using electrophysiology and spatial transcriptomics

Postdoctoral Position – Explore gene expression in healthy and diseased human neuronal networks using electrophysiology and spatial transcriptomics
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The highly competitive Bio-Engineering Systems for Therapeutics (BEST) postdoc programme, part of the Next-gen Bioengineers initiative, is run jointly by the ETH Zurich and Roche Pharma Research and Early Development. The programme focuses on development of new tools and methods to resolve existing problems and come up with solutions for future challenges in medical translation and therapeutics.

Project background
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Important hallmarks of both neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders are alterations in gene expression and the electrical properties of neurons. An important objective of this project is to link changes in neuronal functional properties to gene expression at the single cell level. We will address this question by combining single-cell electrophysiology in human neurons, using high-density microelectrode array (HD-MEA) recordings, and spatially resolved single-cell transcriptomic measurements. The developed system will be applied to advanced human cellular models of healthy and mutant neurons.

Job description
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The postdoctoral researcher will be involved in the optimization of cultures of human neurons obtained via transcription factor-mediated reprogramming, the functional characterization of these cells using MEA, optical imaging based on fluorescence in situ hybridization, single-nucleus RNA-sequencing, and the analysis of the obtained data. The candidate will be part of an interdisciplinary team working on related questions at two different locations, the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, and the Neuroscience and Rare Disease focus area at pRED, Roche. Both Departments are located in the City of Basel. Although the focus of this position is on research, the candidate will also be involved in supervising students and some teaching activities.

Profile
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PhD degree or equivalent in the fields of biology, biotechnology, computational sciences, biomedicine, biomedical engineering, biochemistry, pharmacy, and other related disciplines
Interest in getting trained in next generation human model systems and electrophysiology
Interest in interdisciplinary research at the campuses of Roche and ETH Zurich in Basel
Prior experience with culturing of human iPSC-derived cellular models and MEA electrophysiology is welcome
Ability to work independently as well as part of a team, excellent organizational skills and high reliability
Fluent oral and written communication skills in English are essential

We offer
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Exciting and highly innovative and collaborative research within the framework of Engineering Translational Medicine
Co-supervision by ETH Zurich and Roche principal investigators
Full access to the facilities and expertise at the campuses of Roche and ETH Zurich
Support programme benefits (networking, career development)
Regular seminars and joint symposia at ETH Zurich and Roche
Fully funded fellowship for 3 years
Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich (https://ethz.ch/en/the-eth-zurich/working-teaching-and-research.html)

We value diversity
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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.

Curious? So are we.
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We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents as a single PDF:

A short letter of motivation                 
CV including a list of publications
2 letters of recommendation and/or contact details for referees
Brief statement of research interests
Copy of your doctoral degree certificate

Application deadline: the position is filled on the rolling basis, applications can be submitted until January 6, 2025.

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

Questions regarding the position should be directed to [Dr. Manuel Schröter] by e-mail [[email protected]] and/or [Dr. Marcos R. Costa] by e-mail [[email protected]] (no applications).

Further information about the Bio Engineering Laboratory (Electrophysiology & Neuroscience) at D-BSSE ETH Zurich and Neuroscience and Rare Disease focus area Roche pRED can be found on the websites BSSE and Roche Neuroscience. You can find more information about the Next-gen Bioengineers postdoctoral programme on the website. In case of any administrative issues, please contact the Programme office by e-mail [info@next-​gen-bioengineers.ethz.ch].

About ETH Zürich
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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.