Interested prospective PhD students are encouraged to apply via the Life Science Graduate School Zurich or contact Gerald Schwank. Applicants for PostDoc positions or MSc projects can contact Gerald Schwank directly.
UZH: Research Associate in In Vivo Genome Editing
The Schwank Lab at the University of Zurich develops and translates next-generation genome-engineering technologies toward therapeutic applications. Our interdisciplinary research combines CRISPR-based genome editing, advanced delivery technologies, disease models, and preclinical studies, with major programmes in metabolic liver diseases, neurological disorders, and immune-cell engineering. A particular focus is the development of genome-editing therapies for urea cycle disorders, and we are currently advancing selected programmes toward clinical translation.
Your responsibilities
- Plan, coordinate and conduct in vivo studies in mouse models of genetic liver disease required for the initiation of clinical trials.
- Administer genome-editing therapeutics and other test substances using relevant routes of delivery.
- Perform animal monitoring, blood and tissue collection, necropsies, organ harvesting and downstream sample processing.
- Perform molecular and cellular biology experiments, including mammalian cell culture, DNA and RNA isolation, PCR/qPCR, cloning and preparation of samples for sequencing.
- Analyse, interpret and document experimental results and contribute to the optimisation of experimental protocols.
- Maintain accurate records and ensure that all animal experiments are conducted in accordance with approved protocols and Swiss animal-welfare regulations.
- Collaborate closely with scientists, students and external project partners across several parallel research projects.
Your profile
- BSc or MSc in molecular biology, biotechnology, biomedicine, veterinary medicine, pharmaceutical sciences or a related discipline.
- Substantial hands-on experience conducting experiments with mice is essential.
- Candidates should be confident in animal handling and in relevant experimental procedures such as dosing/injections, monitoring, blood sampling, tissue collection and necropsy.
- Strong practical experience in molecular and cellular biology (cloning, cell culture) and careful handling of biological samples.
- Experience with CRISPR genome editing, RNA therapeutics, lipid nanoparticles, viral vectors, liver biology or metabolic disease models is an advantage but not required.
- Ability to organise and conduct experiments independently, troubleshoot procedures and contribute effectively to multiple projects.
- A highly reliable, precise and collaborative working style, with strong attention to animal welfare and experimental documentation.
- Good written and spoken English.
Information on your application
Please submit your application as a single PDF containing a motivation letter, curriculum vitae, relevant certificates (including laboratory-animal training, where applicable) and contact details for two referees. Klick on this Link