PhD student position to study Theileria-induced host cell transformation
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A PhD student position is available at the University of Bern, Switzerland, to join the research group of Sven Rottenberg (Vetsuisse Faculty and Bern Center for Precision Medicine).
Tasks
Project Overview:
Theileria parasites cause devastating cattle diseases that are globally widespread and have a huge economic impact. These parasites possess the unique ability of transforming their target host cells into continually proliferating, cancer-like cells. In this project we aim to provide mechanistic insights into Theileria-induced transformation, with a focus on DNA replication and repair. We propose that targeted interference with host replisome dynamics could serve as a novel therapeutic strategy against Theileria-induced disease. This hypothesis is based on exciting preliminary data showing that Theileria exports proteins into the host nucleus where they interact with the replication fork.
Theileria parasites cause devastating cattle diseases that are globally widespread and have a huge economic impact. These parasites possess the unique ability of transforming their target host cells into continually proliferating, cancer-like cells. In this project we aim to provide mechanistic insights into Theileria-induced transformation, with a focus on DNA replication and repair. We propose that targeted interference with host replisome dynamics could serve as a novel therapeutic strategy against Theileria-induced disease. This hypothesis is based on exciting preliminary data showing that Theileria exports proteins into the host nucleus where they interact with the replication fork.
Requirements
Candidate Profile:
Applicants should be in the final stages of their Master's degree (with expected completion within the next few months) or have completed their degree within the past six months. We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with a background in molecular and cell biology, and a strong interest in molecular parasitology and DNA replication biology. Experience with techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9, high-content imaging, next-generation sequencing, or cell culture models is an advantage but not required.
Applicants should be in the final stages of their Master's degree (with expected completion within the next few months) or have completed their degree within the past six months. We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with a background in molecular and cell biology, and a strong interest in molecular parasitology and DNA replication biology. Experience with techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9, high-content imaging, next-generation sequencing, or cell culture models is an advantage but not required.
We offer
Employment Conditions:
Salary according to Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) guidelines:
Annual gross salary: CHF 50'000 – 55'000
Position Details:
Start Date: To be discussed, earliest 1 January 2026
Duration: 3–4 years
Salary according to Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) guidelines:
Annual gross salary: CHF 50'000 – 55'000
Position Details:
Start Date: To be discussed, earliest 1 January 2026
Duration: 3–4 years
How to Apply:
Please send your application as a single PDF including:
To: Susanne Schmid, susanne.schmid@unibe.ch
Please send your application as a single PDF including:
- Your CV
- A motivation letter
- Names and contact details (or letters) of two academic references
To: Susanne Schmid, susanne.schmid@unibe.ch
