Postdoctoral position (100%, funded) in skeletal muscle plasticity (group of Prof. Christoph Handsch

The Biozentrum of the University of Basel is one of the leading life sciences institutes in the world. It consists of 30 groups and 500 employees that research how molecules and cells create life, spanning the scale from atom to organism. Founded in 1971, the Biozentrum has been the birth place of many fundamental discoveries in biology and medicine, spawning several Nobel Laureates.

Your position

The Handschin group is interested in investigating the molecular, cellular and systemic processes that control skeletal muscle plasticity in health and disease. We are currently looking for a motivated and well-trained postdoc to study spatio-temporal multicellular interactions in this process, specifically between the different cell types in muscle, but also extending to the motor unit and upstream regulatory circuitries. To do so, state-of-the-art techniques, including single cell and single nucleus RNA sequencing (scRNAseq and snRNAseq, respectively), will be combined with analysis methods to infer spatial information, temporal trajectories, and cell-cell interactions. This project is embedded in a larger effort of the team to understand muscle plasticity in exercise, aging and muscle diseases.

Your profile

Applicants should have a PhD or MD/PhD degree with a strong background in molecular and cell biology. Moreover, extensive experience in experimental work on metabolism, mouse physiology, skeletal muscle biology, transcriptional regulation, systems approaches or bioinformatics is ideal. Selection will furthermore be based on the educational background, motivation, independence and creativity of the applicant. Good knowledge of English is a requirement. The position is funded, and salary according to institutional guidelines.

We offer you

Our international team consists of a dynamic and collaborative group of scientists, committed to work at the frontier of science and to solve fundamental questions about muscle plasticity. The Biozentrum provides a highly stimulating collaborative research environment with a fantastic infrastructure in a brand-new building. Further, we have access to state-of-the-art technology platforms providing the lab with an optimal environment for carrying out cutting-edge interdisciplinary research.
Basel is an international city with people from 150 nations. Located on the border where three countries meet - Switzerland-Germany- France -, it is Europe's most important life sciences hub. Basel provides a high standard of living and a rich and varied cultural atmosphere.

• Your up-to-date CV with contact details of at least two referees
• A brief personal statement, explaining how your research skills and interests align with the aims of this project (max 2 pages)
• All required diplomas, including PhD and MSc confirmation and grades
• List of all your publications and describe briefly (max 300 words) for up to 3 publications what was your role and why they are relevant for the job offer