PhD Candidate Positions at the Interface of Virology and Organoid Research
The Cell & Infection Biology Lab at the Institute of Virology and Immunology and University of Bern is seeking two PhD candidates to explore how flaviviruses affect fetal brain development.
Using advanced human-based models, including placental and brain organoids, you will investigate how these viruses breach cellular barriers and cause damage. The project incorporates a wide range of techniques, including stem cell and molecular biology, 3D organoid models, whole-genome expression profiling, and high-resolution microscopy, among others.
Requirements
* You are curious, motivated, and resilient, with strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently while staying focused on key objectives.
* You thrive in a collaborative environment and excel as a team player.
* You possess both theoretical and practical expertise in stem cell biology, virology, and/or immunology.
* Experience with embryonic stem cell culture techniques and confocal microscopy is highly desirable.
* Strong communication and writing skills in English are essential, while knowledge of German and/or French is considered a plus.
Applicant Qualifications
* Applicants must hold a master's degree (or equivalent) in Life Sciences.
* Eligibility for PhD enrollment at Swiss universities is required.
* Admission to the Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences (GCB) at the University of Bern is also necessary.
What We Offer
* A dynamic, multicultural team and the opportunity to be at the forefront of groundbreaking research.
* Comprehensive training, mentorship, and ongoing support.
* Presenting your research at lab meetings, national and international conferences.
* PhD positions available immediately or upon mutual agreement.
* A competitive salary following Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) guidelines.
* Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including high-resolution microscopy, multiparameter flow cytometry, single-cell RNA sequencing, and high-containment labs for safe virus handling.