Job Description

Department of Molecular Life Sciences

Post-doctoral position using iPSC-derived neuronal models for autism 100 %

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Start of employment January 2026 (or sooner upon agreement)
This position is embedded in the URPP Adaptive Brain Circuits of Development and Learning (AdaBD), one of several University Research Priority Programs (URPPs) of the University of Zurich. The goal of URPP AdaBD is to investigate biological processes that form the basis of learning and the causes for neurodevelopmental disorders. It currently consists of 23 research groups from the University of Zurich and of three platforms that conduct research&development and offer different kind of services to the other members of the URPP, other researchers, and society. By design, URPPs are large consortia bringing together researchers from different backgrounds (clinicians, basic life scientists with various expertise) from the same institution to generate new synergies and interactions and address a societally important problem. Hence, this position will be embedded in a highly dynamic collaborative environment offering a broad exposure to different fields. In addition, the host research group is based at the Department of Molecular Life Sciences and interacts closely with groups within the department, the university and internationally.

Your responsibilities

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One focus of the URPP AdaBD is to understand the basis of autism and to develop novel refined clinical assessments and interventions for affected individuals. The successful candidate will study the molecular and cellular basis of autism using iPSC-derived neuronal models. Patient-derived cells and CRISPR-edited iPSCs will serve as starting point and various assays will be applied (differentiation into neurons, immunofluorescence, proteomic & transcriptomic analyses, electrophysiology in collaboration with the electrophysiology facility). This specific project will be embedded in a larger project of the URPP involving clinicians following patients with autism (clinical assessments and genetic analyses) and with neuroscientists performing behavioural and other assays in mice with alterations in the same genes.

Your profile

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This position is ideal for advanced post-doctoral fellows who aim to establish their career using iPSC-derived models for neurodevelopmental disorders / autism. Applicants should hold a strong PhD degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. molecular biology, cell biology, neuroscience, etc) and have published work using human cell culture methods. Ideally, they should have acquired previous post-doctoral experience and feel ready to independently lead not only their own project but also other group members (PhD and master students). Experience with iPSCs and derived neuronal models is a pre-requisite for this position. Experience in genome engineering using CRISPR/Cas9 would be advantageous. A background in autism / neurodevelopmental disorders research would represent a strong point. Coding skills for enhancing data analysis pipelines and experience with -omics experiments would be an appreciated plus. An ability to work independently allied with a strong team spirit, scientific creativity, and high motivation are expected.

Information on your application

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Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Additional information can be found on our lab webpage and on the AdaBD webpage. Applications should be sent electronically and include a CV (incl. full publication list), copies of all relevant degrees, a statement of interest, and the names and email addresses of two referees.

What we offer

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Work-Life Balance

Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing) Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH

Learning and Development

Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

Food

Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

Healthcare

Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ Free seasonal flu vaccinations Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

Discounts

Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions Special conditions on hotel reservations

Conditions of Employment

Policies of the UZH Most UZH staff are employed according to public law

International Services

Support for people from outside Switzerland

Campuses

Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

Location

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Department of Molecular Life Sciences

Winterthurerstrasse, Zurich, Switzerland

Further information

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Questions about the job

Ruxandra Bachmann-Gagescu

Questions about the application procedure

Ruxandra Bachmann-Gagescu

Professorin
+41 44 635 31 80

Working at UZH

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The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!