Summary
The Caflisch group at the Biochemistry department of the University of Zurich is seeking a Postdoc scientist for a one-year fixed-term appointment (with the possibility of renewal). The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team to support a preclinical drug-discovery programme for Alzheimer’s disease. The focus will be on optimizing drug candidates for improved blood-brain barrier penetration, stability, efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety profiles using in vitro and in vivo models.
Postdoc – Drug development for Alzheimer’s disease 80 – 100 %, University of Zurich, Switzerland
Designation
Postdoc Scientist
Key Job Details
| Feature | Details |
| Employer | University of Zurich (UZH) |
| Department | Department of Biochemistry (Caflisch group) |
| Employment Type | 80 – 100 %, Temporary (Fixed-term for 1 year, renewable) |
| Start Date | October 1, 2026 |
Research Area
Biochemistry, Neurodegeneration, and Preclinical Drug-Discovery (Alzheimer’s Disease).
Location
Department of Biochemistry, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland.
Eligibility/Qualification
- Education: PhD degree in biology, neuroscience, biomedicine, or a related field.
- Research Experience: Hands-on experience with blood-brain barrier research (in vitro and in vivo models, quantitative analysis of drug penetration). Experience in drug discovery in neurodegeneration and LC-MS is a strong advantage.
- Histology Skills: Solid experience with tissue sectioning (cryostat/microtome), immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence staining, fluorescence/confocal microscopy, and large image batch quantitative analysis (e.g., ImageJ/Fiji, QuPath). Brain pathology staining experience (amyloid-β, tau, neuroinflammation) is a plus.
- Cellular Biology Skills: Experience with mammalian cell culture and flow cytometry/FACS. Functional cell assay experience (e.g., phagocytosis) is advantageous.
- Soft Skills: Careful, reliable, well-documented working style. Ability to work independently, organize large cohorts, and exhibit collaborative team spirit.
- Language: Solid knowledge of English and good communication skills.
Job Description
- Take a central role in the group’s in vitro and in vivo drug-discovery programme.
- Set up in vitro and in vivo blood-brain barrier models and test drug candidates using methods like ELISA or LC-MS.
- Process brain tissue for histological and biochemical assays (sectioning, staining, imaging, quantitative image analysis, ELISA, and western blot assays for brain homogenates).
- Support cell-based assays, including mammalian cell culture, microglial phagocytosis assays, and flow cytometry (FACS).
- Contribute to standard biochemical read-outs and meticulously document experimental data.
How to Apply
Applicants must send their CV and a motivation letter in English, grouped together in a single PDF file. Applications should be submitted via the Apply now button on the official UZH job portal.
Last Date for Apply
Open Now
