Postdoctoral Position in RNA Nanocarrier Design

EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, is one of the most dynamic university campuses in Europe and ranks among the top 20 universities worldwide. The EPFL employs more than 6,500 people supporting the three main missions of the institution: education, research and innovation. The EPFL campus offers an exceptional working environment at the heart of a community of more than 17,000 people, including over 12,500 students and 4,000 researchers from more than 120 different countries.

Technical skills:

- Protein Design and Production: Demonstrated experience in protein design using
rational and computational approaches. Proficiency in molecular biology techniques for
cloning and protein production.
- Structural Biology Techniques: Skilled in structural characterization methods,
particularly TEM and cryoEM.
- RNA Techniques: Experience with RNA handling, including qPCR and dPCR, for
assessing RNA loading and integrity.
- Cell Culture and Assays: Proficiency in working with cell culture models, including
conducting delivery efficiency assessments, RNA translation studies, and functional
assays.
- Data Analysis: Strong analytical skills with experience in statistical and computational
data analysis. Familiarity with relevant software and tools.

Personal Attributes:

- Innovative Thinking: Ability to think creatively and propose novel solutions to complex
scientific problems.
- Collaborative Spirit: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a
collaborative research environment.
- Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the
ability to disseminate research findings effectively.
- Detail-Oriented: Meticulous attention to detail in experimental design, execution, and
data analysis.
- Self-Motivated: High level of self-motivation and the ability to work independently when
required.
- Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: A demonstrated commitment to contributing
to a diverse and inclusive research environment.

Main duties and responsibilities include :
Main duties and responsibilities include:
1. Protein Design: Utilize rational and computational tools to design innovative proteinbased
RNA nanocarriers.
2. Molecular Biology and Protein Production: Clone and produce the designed proteins,
ensuring high-quality outputs for subsequent experiments.
3. Characterization of Designed Proteins: Conduct structural characterization using
Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and cryo-Electron Microscopy (cryoEM).
Assess RNA loading and integrity through quantitative PCR (qPCR) and digital PCR
(dPCR).
4. Efficacy Testing in Cell Culture Models: Evaluate the delivery efficiency of
nanocarriers in relevant cell culture models. Analyze RNA translation and perform
functional assays to determine the effectiveness of the designed systems.
5. Research Execution and Communication: Develop a comprehensive research plan to
design RNA nanocarriers, rigorously analyze experimental data using advanced tools,
and effectively disseminate findings through scientific publications and presentations,
guiding the project's scientific direction and contributing to the broader scientific
community.

Your profile :
The successful candidate is expected to hold a PhD degree in Biochemistry, Molecular
Biology, Chemical Biology, Bioengineering, Biophysics or a closely related discipline with
outstanding academic record indicated by publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals and
international conferences. Specialization in protein design, RNA biology, or cryo-EM is highly
desirable.

We offer :
- Emerging Research Environment: Join a new, dynamic laboratory at EPFL focused on
innovative biomolecular engineering and nanomedicine.
- Collaborative Team: Work in a supportive, interdisciplinary team environment.
- Career Development: Engage in groundbreaking research with opportunities for
publication and conference participation.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Benefit from access to advanced research tools and
technologies.
- Competitive Compensation: Receive a competitive salary and benefits package,
aligned with EPFL standards.
- Life in Lausanne: Enjoy Lausanne's rich cultural scene, natural beauty, and dynamic
academic environment.
- Commitment to Diversity: Be part of a lab that values diversity and promotes an
inclusive work culture.

Start date :
01.07.2024 (flexible)

Term of employment :
Fixed-term (CDD)

Duration :
1 year renewable

Contact :
[email protected]

Reference :
Job Nb 3235