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Post Doc Infection Biology (ID 1540)

The AO is a medically guided, not-for-profit organization, a global network of surgeons, and the world's leading education, innovation, and research organization specializing in the surgical treatment of trauma and musculoskeletal disorders. We are home to people from all over the world, from different backgrounds, with diverse talents and specialist areas. What binds us together is our passion for excellence, our dedication to our mission of improving patient care, and our understanding that we are stronger together: we are one AO.
For more information, visit: https://www.aofoundation.org/

The AO Research Institute Davos (ARI) contributes high quality applied preclinical research and development within trauma and disorders of the musculoskeletal system and translation of this knowledge, as well as investigates and improves the performance of surgical procedures, devices, and substances to achieve more effective patient care worldwide. It fosters a close relationship with the AO’s medical community, academic societies, and universities and provides a research environment and support for AO clinicians.
Employment type / Anstellungsverhältnis:  Temporary
Workload percentage / Pensum:  100%
Location / Standort: 

Davos Platz, CH

Experience level / gewünschtes Erfahrungsniveau:  Professional Newcomers
Application language / Bewerbungssprache:  English

Short Description

Fracture-related infection (FRI) remains one of the most challenging complications in orthopedic and musculoskeletal trauma surgery. The Infection Biology team at ARI performs basic and translational studies that aim to provide a better understanding of the pathology of FRI, and develop improved interventional strategies to prevent and/or treat FRI. 
We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral research associate to join the Infection Biology Focus Area of the AO Research Institute Davos (ARI).  
 

Main Responsibilities

  • The successful applicant will be working within a multi-disciplinary team investigating developing and testing novel antibacterial interventions for the treatment of Staphylococcus aureus bone infection. 
  • The position may be particularly suitable for candidates experienced in microbiology (biofilm and/or phage biology) with an interest in developing cross disciplinary skills including molecular biology (recombinant protein production), biomaterials science and preclinical in vivo testing. 
  • The successful applicant will join ongoing studies at ARI. A major focus will be further development of antibiofilm technology utilizing self-healing biomaterials and enzyme-based antimicrobials. This will involve biofilm culture and eradication assessment (culture-based and microscopy) as well as recombinant protein production according to preexisting protocols.  
  • In addition, the job holder will contribute to the preclinical in vitro and in vivo evaluation of bacteriophage-based implant coatings in conjunction with external collaborators.  
     

Main Requirements

  • The ideal candidate is an independent thinker, highly self-motivated and holds a PhD degree in microbiology, biomedical engineering, or a related field and has excellent all-around bacteriology laboratory skills. Experience in mammalian cell culture, confocal microscopy and biomaterials (hydrogels) will be valued, but not required. Familiarity with a cross-cultural/interdisciplinary environment is an advantage.
  • Eligibility to apply and obtain a Visa for temporary residence is Switzerland is essential.
  • We require good English language skills, a work ethic suitable to the challenges we plan to offer. 
  • Familiarity with a cross-cultural/interdisciplinary environment is an advantage. 
  • The position is based in Davos for an initial period of 2 years, with ideal starting date Spring /Summer 2025.
     

We offer

  • An interesting and varied job in an exciting and innovative organization
  • The opportunity to be part of a highly committed international team
  • Modern infrastructure
  • High degree of flexibility regarding working hours and location (depending on operational requirements)
  • Generous package of social benefits, including supplementary vacation days and pension scheme contributions
  • Internal skills training opportunities and support for continued education

If you meet the requirements of this challenging opportunity, please submit your complete online application (motivation letter, CV, certificates, reference letters, etc) through our online application system.
Date of publication:  Feb 19, 2025

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