Summary
ETH Zurich is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher for a collaborative project between the Bio Engineering Laboratory (Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering) and Novartis Biomedical Research in Basel, Switzerland. The role focuses on developing advanced human in vitro models to provide new insights into neuroinflammatory disease mechanisms, specifically Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Job Details
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Research Area | Neurovascular models, B-cell pathobiology, Neuroimmunology, Bioengineering |
| Location | Basel, Switzerland |
| Employment Type | 100%, Fixed-term (2.5 years) |
| Start Date | Flexible (must be before February 2027) |
Job Description
The successful candidate will work at the interface of academic and industrial research, developing human in vitro models of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to investigate mechanisms driving disease progression in Multiple Sclerosis. Key responsibilities include:
- Building on an established multicellular, flow-enabled human BBB platform.
- Incorporating neuroimmune components, including microglia and human B cells, to establish a disease-relevant neuroimmune model of progressive MS.
- Investigating mechanisms regulating B-cell trafficking, CNS compartmentalization, and persistence.
- Evaluating next-generation brain-penetrant B-cell-depleting therapies.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- A background in immunology, neuroimmunology, neuroscience, bioengineering, biotechnology, or related disciplines.
- Experience with advanced in vitro models, blood-brain barrier biology, complex cell culture systems, or immune cell biology is highly desirable.
- Advantageous skills include experience with human immune cells, flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, molecular biology techniques, or transcriptomics.
- Excellent communication skills and a proactive work attitude.
- Fluency in English (oral and written).
- Ability to work in a highly interactive and collaborative international environment.
Benefits
ETH Zurich offers a range of benefits, including:
- A professional environment that supports career development.
- Public transport season tickets and car-sharing options.
- Access to sports facilities through ASVZ.
- Childcare support and attractive pension benefits.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the ETH Zurich online application portal. Emailed or postal applications will not be considered. Please prepare the following documents:
- A short and specific motivation statement (1/2 page).
- Complete academic transcripts.
- An up-to-date CV.
- At least two reference letters or contact details of referees.
For more information on the position, contact Prof. Dr. Andreas Hierlemann at andreas.hierlemann@bsse.ethz.ch (inquiries only, no applications).
Last Date for Apply
Applications must be submitted by December 15th, 2026.
