Immediately or by agreementYour responsibilitiesIn this translational project, you will focus on identifying molecular mediators and mechanisms driving ILD progression in RMD. For this you will process lung samples using standard molecular biology techniques, but also novel techniques such as single nuclei (Sn)RNA-seq and spatial transcriptomics to generate a comprehensive molecular fingerprint. To further validate and assess prioritized molecular targets, functional and mechanistic studies will be conducted in 2D and 3D cell culture models, utilizing primary cells derived from both patients and healthy donors or precision cut slices. Additionally, you will perform large-scale bioinformatic analyses on datasets obtained from publicly available data. You will utilize state-of-the-art bioinformatic tools while also being encouraged to explore and implement novel, robust algorithms to enhance the analytical rigor of the study.Your profilePh.D. degree in Biomedical Sciences or related Life Science areasStrong expertise in cell culture and flow cytometry with proven ability to design and interpret in-vitro studies investigating molecular mechanismsLongstanding experience in cell culture and standard molecular biology techniques (FACS, Western blotting, qPCR, ELISA, etc.)Ability to work independently, high problem-solving skills and strong motivation to learn and establish new methods and protocolsPassion for translational research, with the ability to independently navigate challenges and contribute innovative solutionsYou are creative, hardworking and a team playerYou are dedicated, highly motivated and enthusiastic for combining bioinformatic analysis and molecular biology methodologyEntrepreneurial spiritExcellent communication (English) skills for an effective collaboration with all involved partiesEligibility to apply and obtain a visa for temporary residence is SwitzerlandWhat we offerAn interesting and varied job in an exciting and innovative organizationWorking in a highly committed teamAccess to an interdisciplinary research communityModern infrastructureThe position is on 1-year contracts for a maximum of 3 years.Employment conditions which match the requirements and offer a high degree of flexibilityUnique opportunity to co-develop a therapeutic for one of the most devastating conditionWho we areThe Center of Experimental Rheumatology (CER) of the University Hospital Zurich is a leading institute in Rheumatology research. The Center is one of the most renowned clinics in Switzerland, and has its laboratory at the Schlieren Campus, one of the most modern and attractive research centers in Switzerland, where researchers from the University and ETH Zurich, physicians, developers, and industry work together to alleviate the problems of patients with rheumatic diseases. This postdoc position will focus on interstitial lung disease (ILD), a common and serious complication in individuals with systemic rheumatic musculoskeletal diseases (RMD). ILD significantly impacts patients morbidity and mortality. Currently, there are no therapies available that specifically modify the course of ILD in RMD patiPlace of work:Center of Experimental Rheumatology, Wagistrasse 14, 8952 SchlierenUniversitätsspital Zürich8952 Schlieren