Description

The Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB) is looking for a highly skilled and motivated Research Associate to join the Mitochondrial Biology and Therapy Group, led by Dr. Temurkhan Ayupov.

IOB integrates both basic and clinical research to deepen the understanding of vision and its related diseases while developing new therapies to combat vision loss. We provide a setting where your expertise will be appreciated, your skills tested, and your scientific insights broadened.

The Mitochondrial Biology and Therapy Group focuses on understanding how mitochondrial dysfunction impacts neurodegeneration and is dedicated to developing therapeutic strategies for such conditions. A significant area of our work involves creating targeted mitochondrial transfer therapies. To facilitate this endeavor, we are implementing genome-wide CRISPR screening as a discovery platform to pinpoint the genes and pathways that influence the uptake and integration of donor mitochondria. In this position, you will design, execute, and analyze pooled CRISPR knockout, activation, and interference screens to identify new therapeutic targets and support the group’s translational initiatives.

Missions

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Designing and executing genome-wide CRISPR knockout, CRISPRa, and CRISPRi screens in mammalian cell models
• Validating screening hits using arrayed CRISPR experiments and other functional assays in relevant disease models
• Establishing, optimizing, and routinely executing cell-line generation workflows utilizing mitochondrial transfer methods in both immortalized and primary cells
• Generating and analyzing NGS and RNA-seq data from primary tissues and cultured cells
• Developing and refining cell-type-targeted mitochondrial transfer methods in applicable in vitro and ex vivo models
• Independently designing, performing, documenting, and interpreting experiments meticulously
• Collaborating closely with technical staff and supervising research assistants while remaining actively involved in experiments
• Contributing to the documentation for translational research, regulatory preparations, and clinical protocol development
• Presenting experimental findings internally, to collaborators, and at international conferences
• Mentoring junior lab members through direct experimental guidance and training

Profil

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A PhD in biology, cell biology, molecular medicine, or a closely related field
• Extensive hands-on experience with CRISPR-based screening and NGS analysis
• A solid foundation in cell culture, molecular biology, and in vitro functional assays
• Experience with recombinant protein production
• Familiarity with RNA sequencing is advantageous
• An ability to work independently while managing large-scale, intricate experiments
• Experience operating under BSL-2 conditions
• Excellent organizational capabilities and a keen eye for experimental detail
• Strong scientific communication skills and a collaborative mindset

Avantages

We provide a range of benefits including:

• A chance to be part of a prestigious research institute at the leading edge of vision research, backed by state-of-the-art facilities in an international research environment based in Basel
• Conditions that support peak performance, reflecting a commitment to fostering long-term excellence and family-friendly policies
• Practical support including a convenient location in Basel with excellent public transport, subsidized meals, childcare assistance, and access to university sports facilities
• A culture founded on mutual trust that seeks enthusiastic, innovative, and dedicated colleagues, providing the necessary resources, flexibility, and environment for exceptional work