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 responsibilities

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

Requirements

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

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

Application / Contact

Interested candidates should submit their application documents through our online recruitment platform. Please include a personal statement, your Curriculum Vitae, as well as relevant certificates/diplomas.

For further information, please visit our website www.iob.ch. If you have questions after applying, you can contact us by simply replying to the confirmation email you will receive. We only accept applications via the online recruitment platform, and not via email.

Contact

IOB - Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel
Human Resources
Recruiting team
Phone number : +41 79 458 54 46