Dissertation (Dr. med. vet.) 100 %

About the job

At the Institute of Genetics of the University of Bern, a doctoral candidate is sought from April 1, 2026 (or by arrangement). The position is to be filled in the Companion Animal Genetics working group under the direction of Prof. Dr. Tosso Leeb. The working title of the planned dissertation project is "Molecular genetics of hereditary diseases in dogs and cats".
Monogenically inherited diseases repeatedly occur in companion animals. Especially in breed breeding, a certain degree of inbreeding is unavoidable, which leads to an increased risk of the manifestation of autosomal recessively inherited diseases. With the rapid technical developments in molecular genetics, there are now good chances to clarify the causal gene defects and develop genetic tests that can reliably prevent the unintended breeding of further affected animals. Within the framework of the advertised position, currently occurring new cases of hereditary diseases in companion animals are to be analyzed. Ideally, one or more new genetic tests will result from the work, with which an active contribution to promoting animal health can be made.

• Communication with veterinarians, owners, and breeders
• Internet and literature research
• Evaluation of genome sequence data and other forms of scientific data processing
• Conducting laboratory experiments
• Preparation of one or more publication manuscripts for scientific journals

• Above-average completed studies in veterinary medicine
• Interest in basic research, computer and laboratory work
• Very good knowledge of English

• Varied and challenging work in a dynamic, committed team with good national and international networking
• Insight into basic research with a clear clinical reference
• Topic with high relevance for animal health
• Remuneration according to the guidelines of the Swiss National Science Foundation and the University of Bern
• If interested and suitable, there is the possibility to additionally pursue a PhD afterwards