Research Assistant/Associate, Molecular Mechanisms of Myopia

100% - Ref.: IOB158

The Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB) is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant / Associate to work on the molecular mechanisms of myopia. The candidate will be integrated into the Human Retinal Circuits research group.

The global surge in Myopia (or near-sightedness) has reached epidemic proportions and represents one of the most significant public health challenges of our time. The rise in prevalence among children is so extreme that 80-90% of young adults are affected in some regions of the globe. The situation is expected to worsen, with half of the world-nearly 5 billion people-projected to become myopic by 2050. This dramatic epidemiological shift carries profound consequences: myopia-induced pathologies, including macular degeneration, glaucoma and retinal detachment, will make myopia the leading cause of blindness worldwide. Our team aims to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms of myopia and to develop new therapies that can halt or reverse myopia progression and associated pathologies. The successful applicant will become part of this multidisciplinary international team and will contribute towards major breakthroughs in Human Medicine.

Your position

• Perform in vivo experiments, including OCT imaging, ERG recordings and behavioural tests
• Perform in vitro culture of complex cellular models generated from human-derived cells
• Perform molecular biology experiments, including PCR, qPCR and western blot
• Optimize and perform functional genomics techniques, including bulk and single-cell RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, multiomics and spatial transcriptomics
• Process eye tissue for histological analysis using various methods (FFPE processing, cryosectioning, vibratome sectioning, immunostaining and in situ hybridization)
• Analyse tissue using confocal microscopy and pre-defined quantitative algorithms
• Apply flow cytometry to sort cell populations from eye tissues
• Design cellular and molecular assays for high-throughput screening of lead candidates
• Collaborate closely with members of IOB Groups and Platforms

Your profile

• MSc or PhD degree in molecular biology, genomics, neuroscience or related field
• Minimum 3 years-experience in at least one of the following fields: molecular biology, functional genomics, human cell culture (preferably complex cellular models, such as spheroids or organoids), histology and microscopy, flow cytometry and/or retinal biology
• Prior mouse work experience is required for this position. LTK1/FELASA or equivalent qualification is mandatory
• Independence in planning, conducting, analysing and troubleshooting complex experiments
• Enthusiasm to establish and optimize new protocols and techniques
• The candidate should be highly organized, precise, detail-oriented and computer skilled
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills in English
• Track record of scientific excellence and independent thinking

We offer you

• Highly competitive conditions in a dynamic and international research community in Basel
• Five weeks of vacation for all employees, with increasing amount of vacation days by age
• IOB is an equal-opportunity employer with family-friendly work policies. Namely, we offer childcare subsidy, a family room, among other forms of support
• Opportunities for professional growth and development, including support for additional training and education
• The chance to be part of a groundbreaking research institute. At IOB, your work will be highly meaningful for society, your expertise will be valued, and your abilities will be challenged