Research Assistant (100%) - Investigating the impact of 2D Materials, pesticides and chemicals on the intestinal and skin barrier using in vitro co-culture models Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain. The Nanomaterials in Health Lab enables particle-based solutions for diagnostics and therapeutics driven by clinical needs. We are active in characterizing, understanding and steering the interaction of particulate materials with human cells or tissues and provide expertise in the interdisciplinary field of particulate materials safety and applications for industry or authorities. Your tasks Understanding the effects of 2D materials, pesticides and chemicals on biological barriers is crucial for assessing their potential risks to human health. The intestinal and skin barriers serve as primary defense mechanisms and their disruption can lead to systemic exposure, toxicity or inflammatory responses. This project aims to evaluate barrier integrity, cell viability and molecular responses using advanced in vitro biobarrier models. It is part of the EU CHIASMA project, aiming to develop and demonstrate a comprehensive set of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) and integrate them into a user-friendly, reliable and robust framework for human and environmental safety evaluation in a regulatory context.Your key tasks will include:Establishing and maintaining intestinal and skin in vitro barrier models in the cell culture lab Assessing barrier integrity using NaFlu (sodium fluorescein) size exclusion assays Evaluating cell viability through MTT and LDH assays to determine cytotoxic effects and establish dose-response curvesQuantifying relevant protein expression via immunostaining techniques to assess molecular changes upon exposureAnalyzing the effects of different chemicals and materials on barrier functionality, viability and inflammatory responsesDocumenting, analyzing, and interpreting experimental results Your profile MSc. degree in biology, toxicology, life sciences or a related fieldHigh motivation to work in an interdisciplinary projectExperience with cell culture workExpertise in microscopy and immunochemical stainingsSkills in data analysis and interpretationProficient in both written and spoken English Our offer A highly stimulating research environment in the Empa laboratories in St.GallenAccess to state-of-the-art infractructure and equipmentOpportunity for close collaborations with experts from different fields (engineers, chemists, clinicians)Support for personal developmentThe project will be carried out at Empa St.Gallen under the supervision of Dr. Tina Buerki-Thurnherr. The position is available starting from September 2025 or upon agreement, for an initial duration of 1 year. We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities - that's what counts. We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered. Sarah Stüdli, Bereichspersonalleiterin / HR Partner Questions? Dr. Tina Bürki-Thurnherr tina.buerki@empa.ch Your future place of work Empa Lerchenfeldstrasse 5 9014 St. Gallen Empa as an employer Innovative, sustainable, meaningful activities Creating added value for society International, multicultural working environment Freedom to create and develop Culture of inclusion and respect Excellent balance between different areas of life Multiple award-winning and certified employer Benefits for rail, mobile, childcare, catering, etc. Good to know Empa website Working in Switzerland Employment process Conditions of employment Apply now jidd37ba85a jit0416a jiy25a