Postdoctoral Researcher - Structural Biology of Cilia (100%)

The project

Motile cilia (also called flagella) are complex and fascinating organelles that perform vital functions in many organisms, from protists to humans. In the Gluenz lab we study the flagellum of the unicellular parasite Leishmania, which is used during the course of the parasite's life cycle for motility, sensory functions and adhesion. We take advantage of the genetic tractability of these cells to study how motility is affected by defined mutations in dynein motor proteins, and pathways that regulate dynein activity. The dissection of structure-function relationships in the motile cilium allows us to address some fundamental questions of how cells regulate ciliary motility. Key methods include targeted mutagenesis using CRISPR-Cas9, quantitative proteomics, ultrastructural expansion microscopy and high-speed video-microscopy of live cells.

The role

The post holder will be using cryo-electron tomography methods to characterise the structure of wild type and mutant flagella to discover the structural basis for the observed mutant phenotypes and contribute to the understanding of ciliary motility mechanisms.

We are looking for...

...a highly motivated and curiosity-driven postdoctoral researcher with experience in cellular electron tomography / cryo-electron microscopy to join a collaborative project to study the structure and function of motile cilia. The work will be based in the Gluenz lab (Institute of Cell Biology) and supported by the cryo-electron microscopy specialists at the Dubochet Center for Imaging (DCI) at the University of Bern.

The ideal candidate will have gained some experience in cellular tomography / cryo-electron microscopy, e.g. in a recently completed PhD project. Prior experience of studying cilia in any system would be an asset.

A strong foundation in data analysis and a good command of English is required.

We are looking for a researcher that can communicate effectively and who can work independently within a supportive and diverse team.

Prior experience of working in a cell biology laboratory is desirable.
The position is initially funded for two years, from 1st May 2026 (starting date negotiable).