Post Doc Progenitor Cell Biology and Mechanoregulation (temporary position for 3 years)

We are looking for a highly motivated

Postdoctoral Research Associate (100%) within the Progenitor Cell Biology and Mechanoregulation Focus Area, Davos/Switzerland

The Progenitor Cell Biology and Mechanoregulation Focus Area is part of the Regenerative Orthopaedics Program. Under the lead of Prof. Martin Stoddart it is a leading group in the musculoskeletal research area, with the head of the focus area being recognised on the Stanford top 2% of scientists in the world list. The focus of the group is to study the role of complex multiaxial load on the maturation and development of cartilage and its progenitor cells using custom built bioreactor systems for the mechanical stimulation of tissue.

The successful applicant will be working within a multidisciplinary team investigating mechanoregulation of progenitor cell fate. An articulating joint needs to be considered as an organ system, with cross talk between multiple tissues, inflammatory reactions and low oxygen condition (2-5%). Therefore, the project will involve further increasing the complexity of in vitro loading models to include additional aspects such as subchondral bone and inflammation. Low oxygen conditions will also be applied to more closely represent the native articulating joint and there is an emphasis on the progression of MSC towards hypertrophy. The position offers the opportunity to develop research ideas and the potential to integrate into established collaborative networks. The ideal applicant is enthusiastic, creative, with excellent communication skills. You will also be expected to help supervise and teach PhD students and Medical fellows of the research team. 

The position may be particularly suitable for candidates experienced in cellular and molecular biology with an interest in developing cross disciplinary skills. The candidate will closely interact with internal and external collaborators focusing on the imaging and mechanical aspects of the projects.

In this role you will be required to

• Plan and conduct in vitro experiments using a multiaxial load cartilage bioreactor
• Develop new complex multi-tissue models
• Establish molecular methods (e.g. single cell RNAseq, in situ hybridization) for musculoskeletal tissue

 In order to master this challenge you have

• PhD in biology, biomedical engineering or related field
• Experience in cell culture and laboratory techniques (e.g. histology, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry)
• Experience in molecular biology
• Experience in planning and executing research projects with publication of results
• Experience in supervision is beneficial (e.g. bachelor, master students)
• We require good English language skills
• Workplace behaviour or attitude

Depending on the expertise, the gross salary starts at CHF 80,000-83,000 per year. In addition, there are secondary benefits such as a minimum of 25 days holiday per year, accident insurance and a pension plan