Postdoc position in mesothelioma research 80-100%, Department of Thoracic Surgery
upon agreement
The ultimate goal of this research project is to explore molecular heterogeneity and establish a pre-clinical research models for pleural mesothelioma (PM), a rare cancer commonly associated with asbestos exposure. Although, many new therapeutic agents have been clinically evaluated, treatment options are still limited for patients with PM due to low response rate. In addition, a large variation in survival outcomes is seen in PM patients even within the same histological subgroups. Thus, it is important to better understand the molecular heterogeneity of both tumor and its microenvironment to allow development of personalized treatment strategies. In this consortium, centred in Zürich, we aim to address the unmet clinical needs through application of a comprehensive multiomic profiling approaches, including single cell transcriptomic, bulk transcriptomic and DNA methylation profiling. In addition, the establishment of pre-clinical mouse models closely reflecting complex tumor heterogeneity of PM is the key to successful clinical translation.
Your responsibilities
The successful candidate will work on key parts of this collaborative project, funded by SNSF. The tasks include:
In addition, the successful candidate will also take part in other ongoing projects for PM at our institution, that require similar technical approaches. Although, this project is limited to around 2 years, there is an option for extension.
- Selection of patient cohorts from the clinical database and preparation of samples including tissues, RNA, DNA. This may also include the preparation of single cell and bulk RNA sequencing libraries.
- Collaborate and prepare samples for DNA methylation profiling by Illumina Infinium 450k array.
- Establish in vivo mouse xenograft for PM (with bioluminescent and fluorescent imaging) using the already available 3D cell model, and perform treatment with new treatment agents
- Perform analyses on the in vivo samples such as bulk or single cell RNA sequencing, cell culture, FACS, immunohistochemical/immunofluorescent stainings
- Report the results and present at the monthly consortium meeting
In addition, the successful candidate will also take part in other ongoing projects for PM at our institution, that require similar technical approaches. Although, this project is limited to around 2 years, there is an option for extension.
Your profile
PhD in biology, biomedical science or a related science field. In addition to hands-on experience in cell culture and the standard biology methods, applicants must be willing to take a lead in performing experiments with mouse model. You have experience with tumor animal models, and LTK 1 already completed is a plus. You are willing to get familiarize with bioinformatics approaches or an experience with bioinformatics tools is a plus. You are fluent in English (writing and speaking) with high degree of flexibility and dedication to the project. Knowledge of German is a plus. You are able and want to work independently and enjoy challenges. You work accurately and in an organized manner. A good and accurate documentation of data and regular exchange with the direct supervisor is necessary. You have empathy and enjoy working in a team.
What we offer
We are offering an original and translational research project addressing unmet clinical needs of mesothelioma. You will be working in a team of highly motivated colleagues with experience in translational and clinical research, and will be provided with an excellent supporting environment and infrastructure. Our lab is located at the University Hospital Zurich, in the center of the city of Zurich. The animal facility is located in the research facilities of the University Hospital in Schlieren. In additional, you will be working in a consortium involving clinicians, bioinformaticians, biologists with expertise in PM, multi-omics data analysis, and in vitro and in vivo tumor model development. The team PI Prof. Opitz, Director of the Department of Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital Zurich is the Chair of the Lung Cancer Center (LTZ). As a reference center for PM surgery, the LTZ receives referrals from all over Switzerland and aboard and possess a large collection PM tumor biobank along with comprehensive clinical data. This offers you valuable resource for generating new ideas for a research project that can be done alongside or for the prolongation of your research stay.
Warum ans USZ
Further Information
Please send your application as one single PDF file (motivation letter, complete CV, copies of academic certificates, and names of 2 references) to Dr. Mayura Meerang
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Über das USZ
Das Universitätsspital Zürich ist eines der grössten Spitäler in der Schweiz. Unsere über 8'600 Mitarbeitenden und rund 700 Auszubildende setzen sich täglich für das Wohl unserer Patient:innen ein. Knapp 39'000 stationäre Patientinnen und Patienten und rund 800'000 ambulante Konsultationen pro Jahr zeugen von dem grossen Vertrauen in das USZ und seine Mitarbeitenden.
Kita vor Ort
Kita vor Ort
In unserer Kindertagesstätte werden Ihre Kinder liebevoll betreut. Lange Öffnungszeiten ohne Betriebsferien und subventionierte Betreuungsplätze an 5 Standorten entlasten Sie als arbeitstätige Eltern.
Gesundheit
Gesundheit
Wir unterstützen Ihre Gesundheit. Neben persönlichen Beratungen und Kursen des Gesundheitsmanagements, die für Ihr gesundheitliches Wohl sorgen, bietet Ihnen ein subventioniertes Jahresabonnement beim ASVZ Zugang zu über 120 Sportarten.
Flexibilität
Flexibilität
Wir unterstützen eine ausgewogene Work-Life-Balance: Fast die Hälfte unserer Mitarbeitenden arbeitet Teilzeit und 50% der Arbeit kann im Homeoffice erledigt werden, wo immer es der Berufsalltag erlaubt.
Familienfreundlichkeit
Familienfreundlichkeit
Mütter haben Anrecht auf mindestens 6 Monate Mutterschaftsurlaub (16 Wochen mit vollem Lohn), Väter auf mindestens 2 Monate Vaterschaftsurlaub (2 Wochen mit vollem Lohn).
Weiterbildung & Entwicklung
Weiterbildung & Entwicklung
Wir begleiten unsere Mitarbeitenden über ihre ganze berufliche Laufbahn und unterstützen sie in ihrer Entwicklung mit individuellen Karriere- und Weiterbildungsmöglichkeiten.
Versicherungen
Versicherungen
Wir übernehmen 60% der Pensionskassenbeiträge und bieten Sonderkonditionen für Ergänzungsversicherungen.
Mobilität
Mobilität
Unsere Mitarbeitenden profitieren von einem persönlichen ZVV-Verbund-Jahresabonnement zum Spezialpreis oder erhalten einen fixen Geldbetrag als Beitrag zu einem Generalabonnement (GA).
