Postdoctoral position in Human Neuroimmunology in Zürich

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The mission of the Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zürich is to advance innovative research and teaching in microbiology and immunology. Microbial interactions are the unifying scheme and currently cover microbial communities and microbe interactions with eukaryotic hosts. The collaborative environment of the Institute of Microbiology has created a unique scientific fertilization ground unsurpassed in breadth, top-level expertise and visibility in the field of Microbiology and Immunology.

The Human Neuroimmunology Group (lead by Dr. Daniela Latorre) at the Institute of Microbiology at ETH Zurich, is expanding its young and ambitious research team to study autoreactive T cells in human neurological disorders. Our overall research goal is to increase our knowledge on basic aspects of human T cell biology in health and autoimmunity, with resulting impact for biomedical applications. We have currently a postdoctoral position available for highly motivated and skilled scientists with a strong interest in immunology.

The research topic focuses on the study of autoreactive T cells in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid of patients suffering from Guillain-Barré syndrome with the overall aim to provide an unbiased in-depth characterization of their phenotype, frequency and TCR repertoire as well as to define the antigenic repertoire targeted by these cells. This project offers the opportunity to learn a wide range of techniques by employing state-of-the-art methodologies, including in vitro T cell screening, ex vivo tetramer staining and scRNAseq.

Selected publication:

• PhD in a field related to immunology or systems biology (i.e.: immunology, biology, bioinformatics)
• Fluency in spoken and written English
• Previous experience in at least one of the following is required:
  • in vitro cell culture and multiparametric flow-cytometry
  • T cell immunology, in vitro T cell culture and functional T cell assays
• Experience in high-dimensional data analysis (protein, scRNAseq) and programming languages (R or python) is required
• High motivation and ambition, excellent organization and team-working skills, high enthusiasm, reliability and flexibility and willingness to develop independent thinking and learn new skills

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.