Research Associate in Vivo Genome Editing — Universität Zürich

Description complète

Schwank Lab, Institute of Pharmacology, University of Zurich

Start of employment as soon as possible or upon agreement

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.

What we offer

Our employees benefit from a wide range of attractive offers. Find out more: https://www.uzh.ch/de/explore/work.html.

What we offer

Work-Life Balance

• Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
• Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH

More Learning and Development

• Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
• Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

Food

• Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
• Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

Healthcare

• Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
• Free seasonal flu vaccinations
• Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

Discounts

• Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
• Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions

Conditions of Employment

• Policies of the UZH
• Most UZH staff are employed according to public law

International Services

• Support for people from outside Switzerland

Campuses

• Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
• Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

Working at UZH

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer! More