Postdoc in Molecular Neurobiology

In der aktuellen Covid-19 Situation laufen die Rekrutierungen weiter. Es kann dabei allerdings zu Verzögerungen kommen. Vielen Dank für Ihr Verständnis.

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The laboratory of Systems Neuroscience at ETH Zurich studies the role of non-coding RNAs in mammalian synapse development, plasticity and behaviour. Over the last years, the lab has established specific neuronal microRNAs, short non-coding RNAs with a role in post-transcriptional gene regulation, as important regulators of several aspects of neuroplasticity, such as dendritogenesis, dendritic spine maturation and synaptic scaling in dissociated neuron cultures. A current focus of the lab is to unravel the physiological functions of these microRNAs in animal behaviour, with a focus on learning and memory, as well as social behaviour. This should lead to a better understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders with social and cognitive impairments, such as autism and schizophrenia. 

Project background

This position is part of the new SNSF-funded project "microRNA regulation of social behaviour: Towards harnessing microRNAs for the restoration of social function in neuropsychiatric disease (SocioMiR)". The aim of this project is to investigate the potential for microRNA therapeutics in autism. This will involve the identification of microRNA-target interactions relevant for mouse social behaviour, cognition and communication, followed by their manipulation in the context of genetic autism mouse models. 

Job description

The main tasks include:

• generation of constructs for viral brain delivery
• stereotactic injection of AAV and oligonucleotides into the mouse brain
• assessement of mouse social behaviour, cognition and communication
• molecular characterization of mice by transcriptomics and proteomics
• electrophysiological characterization of neural circuits (in collaboration) 

State-of-the art facilities to conduct the above tasks (animal facility, electrophysiology setup, genomics/proteomics platform) are available at the institute. In addition, the neuro community on campus offers ample opportunities for collaboration. 

Your profile

You hold a PhD in a relevant discipline and has an outstanding publication record. We are looking for highly motivated candidates with the ability to work both independently and as a team player. Excellent communication skills in English are mandatory. Documented experience in animal surgery and behavoiural research, molecular biology and/or electrophysiology is advantageous.

ETH Zurich

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.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich