Postdoctoral Position in Neuroimmunology

The role is a Postdoctoral Position in Neuroimmunology within the Department of Biomedicine (DBM) at the University of Basel. The DBM is a collaborative venture between the University of Basel and the University Hospitals Basel, focusing on advancing the understanding of health and disease through both basic and clinical research. The lab, led by Prof. Tobias Derfuss, is dedicated to uncovering the causes and mechanisms of autoimmune diseases affecting the nervous system, with a particular focus on multiple sclerosis and myasthenia gravis. The main day-to-day responsibilities involve conducting research to understand the interactions between autoreactive B cells, the lymphotropic virus EBV, and the cellular anatomy of the central nervous system. This includes engineering human B cells to express specific B cell receptors, enabling native-like class switch, somatic hypermutation, and plasma cell differentiation. The research aims to study how peripherally circulating B cells can develop into CNS-resident, antibody-secreting cells and how this process contributes to multiple sclerosis. Experimental methods include molecular and cell biology, flow cytometry, histology, microscopy, protein methods, and bioinformatics, with potential work involving immune-humanized mice. Must-have requirements include a doctoral degree in a related subject or a medical degree with relevant research experience. Candidates must be comfortable working in a lab environment and be able to work both independently and as part of a highly integrated team. A sound understanding of the principles of cellular genetic engineering using viral vectors, CRISPR/Cas9 systems, etc., is indispensable. Nice-to-have skills include knowledge of relevant subjects such as immunology, neurology, molecular biology, protein engineering, and bioinformatics. The lab offers a stable, friendly environment with well-equipped facilities and a supportive team. Basel is noted for its great research community and offers a variety of activities for most interests. What the role asks for: - A doctoral degree in a related subject, or a medical degree with relevant research experience. - Ability to work independently and as part of a highly integrated team. - A sound understanding of the principles of cellular genetic engineering using viral vectors, CRISPR/Cas9 systems, etc.