Postdoc - in vivo optoelectronics application and verification

EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, is one of the most dynamic university campuses in Europe and ranks among the top 20 universities worldwide. The EPFL employs more than 6,500 people supporting the three main missions of the institutions: education, research and innovation.

Mission

The LSBI is a multidisciplinary group at the crossroads of engineering and biology. Our research explores materials, technology and integration of soft bioelectronic interfaces and electronic skins. We design, fabricate and characterise stretchable devices, and implement them in ultra-compliant circuitry and soft bioelectronic interfaces. Our field of applications ranges from neuroelectronic devices for neuroprosthetics, to wearable sensors and actuators, as well as soft in vitro interfaces.

The Postdoc will contribute to the development and verification of an optoelectronic therapy for bladder dysfunction. More specifically, he/she will be responsible for overseeing the in vivo testing, optimization and functional verification of optoelectronic devices based on µLED’s assembled on compliant substrates. The Postdoc will join a multidisciplinary team including micro-/neuro- technologists, neuroscientists, and molecular biologists.

Main duties and responsibilities

In this position, the Postdoc will have a broad set of responsibilities including:

• Lead the optimization, application and verification of an optoelectronic implant for bladder dysfunction in rodent models
• Collect and analyse electrophysiological and behavioural data
• Histologically evaluate tissue following chronic implantation
• Work independently and as part of a collaborative team to plan and execute experiments
• Maintain knowledge of published developments in research field and recommend alternative strategies
• Plan and organize workload to meet project milestones and timelines
• Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of experimental methods and outcomes in lab books and written reports
• Communicate research updates and outcomes effectively through verbal presentations at lab meetings and conferences
• Contribute to scientific publications as well as to patents

Qualifications

• PhD in neuroscience, neuroengineering, or related field
• Relevant experience in preclinical neuroscience using implanted interfaces
• Expertise in electrophysiology techniques, including in vivo recordings of neuronal activity (local field potentials), EMG recordings
• Experience with complex surgical and behavioural techniques in rodent models
• Familiarity with optogenetics (preferred)
• Working knowledge of histological methods and fluorescent microscopy (preferred)
• Open minded, proactive, problem-solving attitude with strong sense of ownership and drive
• Ability to work in an independent manner, while contributing effectively to a collaborative team environment
• Efficient, flexible, with strong organizational and time management skills
• Fluency in oral and written English (C1) is a must, French is a plus

We offer

• An opportunity to work on a cutting-edge project in neuroscience and neurotechnology within a world-class community of engineers, neuroscientists and medical doctors.
• A dynamic, multidisciplinary, international and collaborative working environment based at EPFL Campus Biotech in Geneva.
• EPFL is an international and world-class engineering institution that hosts state-of-the-art experimental and computational facilities, a rich and vibrant scientific and entrepreneurial community.

Required materials

Only applications submitted through the online platform are considered. The application package should include:

• A 1-page cover letter clearly indicating the candidate’s motivation for the position
• A curriculum vitae (2 pages max.)
• A list of scientific contributions (publications, talks, posters)
• A list of 3 reference names (email & address)

Informal queries: giuseppe.schiavone@epfl.ch, thomas.hutson@wysscenter.ch

Apply online