Position: Researcher Electrophysiologist
Location: Electrophysiology Facility of University of Zurich, Switzerland
Start date: 01/03/2024
About the position
Arterial hypertension, affecting 20% of the population and escalating with age, poses a significant cardiovascular risk. Primary aldosteronism (PA), the main cause of secondary hypertension, results from excessive aldosterone production in the adrenal glands. Genetic mutations in ion channel genes are linked to this excess aldosterone production, but technical constraints currently impede the exploration of cellular heterogeneity. The Electrophysiology Facility of University of Zurich in collaboration with the Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Clinical Nutrition (USZ), and the Department of Molecular Life Sciences at UZH, seek a researcher to lead a project to investigate functional heterogeneity in healthy and PA-affected adrenal cells. Analysing gene mutations and their impact on cellular function, our study aims to advance understanding of aldosterone regulation, offering insights into PA and age-related hypertension, and influencing strategies for promoting cardiovascular health in the elderly.
Job description
- Implement and conduct electrophysiological recordings using automated patch clamp technology.
- Develops and execute high throughput imaging methods.
- Analyse and report data.
- Maintain detailed records of protocols and experiments.
Collaborates closely with researchers with different expertise for implementation of experimental pipeline and data analysis.
The candidate
Required Skills:
- PhD in biomedical sciences or related disciplines
- Team player
- Extensive experience in electrophysiology, preferably with high-throughput automated patch clamp
- Proficiency in microscopy
- Strong organizational skills
- Excellent communication skills in English
- Motivated, agile, and quick learner
Desired Skills:
- Experience with analysis and integration of large datasets from different techniques
- Experience with high throughput imaging and image analysis
- Background in endocrinology and/or tumour biology
- Experience with cell sorting and single cell sequencing.
Further information
What is offered
The University of Zurich stands out as an attractive place to work due to its vibrant community, characterized by a strong sense of involvement and commitment from everyone, including researchers, teaching staff, students, and supporting staff. The university offers well-equipped, conveniently located spaces, including physical and virtual environments. Moreover, UZH prides itself on its rich diversity, being the largest university in Switzerland, bringing together individuals from diverse disciplinary, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds, enriching the academic learning experience and enhancing collaborative opportunities.
Start of employment
This fully funded position is initially for one year, starting on March 1, 2024, or as per mutual agreement. Extension for up to three years is possible based on results.
How to apply
Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest, CV, and relevant documentation (reference letter(s), certificates, etc.) as a single PDF to Dr. David Penton
For more details visit the UZH website.