Job Description

A postdoctoral position (80-100% - early or advanced) is available in the research group of Britta Engelhardt at the Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern.

The project focuses on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying early blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Using human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived in vitro models, the successful candidate will investigate BBB dysfunction in persons with MS (PwMS) from a cell-intrinsic perspective, moving beyond the classical view that BBB breakdown is merely a secondary consequence of autoimmune neuroinflammation.

Project Vision

BBB disruption is a hallmark of early MS pathology. Building on our published observations this project tests the hypothesis that genetic, epigenetic and transcriptional alterations intrinsic to brain endothelial cells actively contribute to BBB dysfunction. We propose that these intrinsic changes, together with additional risk factors, drive the transition towards clinically manifest MS.


Tasks
Establish and apply hiPSC-derived in vitro models of the human neurovascular unit (NVU) from healthy controls and PwMS Identify transcriptional and phenotypic differences between healthy and MS-derived NVU models composed of brain microvascular endothelial cells, pericytes and astrocytes Discover and validate candidate genes contributing to BBB dysfunction in MS Test whether targeted modulation of these target genes can restore BBB integrity Use microfluidic systems to study how modulation of the target genes affects immune cell trafficking across the BBB under physiological flow conditions using advanced live cell imaging
Requirements


Strong interest in brain barrier research in the context of multiple sclerosis PhD or MD/PhD in the life sciences, preferentially in vascular biology, neuroscience, or a related field In depth experience with human induced pluripotent stem cell cultures and differentiation, ideally including hiPSC-derived brain barrier models Knowledge of barrier function assays, including TEER and permeability measurements Solid expertise in standard and advanced laboratory techniques, including: Primary cultures of human cells, PCR and qRT-PCR, RNAseq, Western blotting, ELISA, CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, Multicolor flow cytometry, Histology, immunostainings, Confocal microscopy and image analysis*
Motivation to work in an international, collaborative, and multidisciplinary research environment Fluency in English, both written and spoken Post-doctoral experience and knowledge in microfluidic devices and live-cell imaging are an advantage
We offer


A high-impact, hypothesis-driven project at the forefront of brain barrier and MS research A lively and international research team with strong expertise in BBB biology Access to cutting-edge hiPSC, microfluidic, and imaging technologies Competitive salary according to University of Bern postdoctoral regulations- early or advanced post-doctoral position Opportunities for scientific development, networking, and conference participation Starting date: February 1, 2026, or by appointment Initial 1-year contract with the possibility of extension for a second year

Please submit your application as one single PDF file including:

Meaningful motivation letter Curriculum vitae Publication list Contact details of at least two referees
Send your application by email to Ms. Fabienne Leuenberger: fabienne.leuenberger@unibe.ch





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