Postdoc in Multiphoton Intravital Imaging / Postdoc in Multiphoton Intravital Imaging

Postdoc Position in Multiphoton Intravital Imaging

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics (LBB) at the Institute for Biomechanics at ETH Zurich is offering a Postdoc position in multiphoton intravital imaging of heterotopic ossification and bone fracture healing. This position is part of the SNSF Sinergia project SLIHI4BONE (Nr. 213520; project start 01.04.2023; collaboration partners: M. Bohner, RMS Foundation, Bettlach; R. Müller, ETH Zurich; E. Wehrle, ARI Davos) which aims at investigating a newly proposed mechanism explaining the formation of bone in soft tissue, known as heterotopic ossification (doi:10.1016/j.mattod.2018.10.036). This mechanism suggests that tissue mineralization induces a sustained local ionic homeostatic imbalance (SLIHI), where a reduction in extracellular calcium may modulate inflammation, thereby triggering bone formation. The overarching goal of this project is to validate this mechanism and leverage it to promote healing in large bone defects.

Project Background

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a prevalent and often debilitating condition characterized by the abnormal formation of mature bone in soft tissues. The mechanisms behind HO are not well understood, and current therapies to prevent or treat this condition show limited effectiveness, often leading to the surgical removal of the ectopic bone. This abnormal bone formation results from an osteoinductive process in which stem cells differentiate into bone cells—a property that is crucial for addressing large bone defects.

While osteoinduction can currently be achieved through the implantation of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), safety concerns have been raised about their use. Alternatively, osteoinductive bone graft substitutes exist, but their effectiveness remains suboptimal, with underlying mechanisms under debate. By demonstrating that low extracellular calcium levels are critical for triggering bone formation, we can enhance our understanding of this process and open new avenues for designing effective osteoinductive graft substitutes and facilitating improved outcomes in impaired bone healing.

Project Team and Setup

Within this project, we adopt a multidisciplinary collaborative approach, having recruited three PhD students specializing in material science, advanced in vivo imaging, and in vivo molecular biology. The Postdoc position at LBB, ETH Zurich, will focus on advancing our multiphoton intravital imaging technology. This collaborative team setup will enable the design of calcium phosphate materials with controlled architecture and composition, as well as the assessment of their mineralization rates in vitro and in vivo. We will employ multimodal approaches, including time-lapsed in vivo imaging, multiphoton intravital microscopy, spatial transcriptomics, and proteomics to investigate the extracellular calcium levels and tissue responses surrounding these materials.

Job Description

For the multiphoton intravital imaging work package within SLIHI4BONE, we seek a motivated Postdoc to join the Institute for Biomechanics at ETH Zurich. You will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with the Sinergia project partners at RMS Foundation and ARI Davos:

• Development of intravital imaging protocols for HO and impaired bone healing using time-lapsed micro-computed tomography and multiphoton microscopy
• Extension of intravital imaging technology to include ratiometric imaging for quantifying bone marrow interstitial pH and calcium concentrations
• Imaging support for in vivo experiments

Profile

• PhD degree in physics or biophysics
• Experience in intravital imaging demonstrated by first-author publications is required
• Previous experience with ratiometric imaging is advantageous
• Prior experience with in vivo animal models is a plus
• Excellent communication skills in English (oral and written) are essential
• High motivation and a strong interest in skeletal research, with resilience to tackle challenges
• Ability to solve complex tasks independently
• Familiarity with a cross-cultural and interdisciplinary environment is advantageous

Workplace

ETH Zurich is committed to delivering a professional environment that fosters innovation and collaboration.

We Offer

• Your work will have a meaningful impact: Join ETH Zurich, which supports your professional development while actively contributing to positive change in society.
• An engaging and varied role in dynamic and innovative settings.
• Collaboration with a highly dedicated multidisciplinary team.
• Regular meetings and close cooperation with Sinergia project partners.
• Attractive benefits, including public transport passes, car sharing options, a diverse range of sports through ASVZ, childcare services, and appealing pension plans.

Commitment to Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture. We prioritize equal opportunity, value diversity, and cultivate a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all our staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to understand how we maintain a fair environment that enables everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value; we continuously strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

We look forward to your application. Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is among the world's leading universities in science and technology. We are recognized for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct transfer of knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence in a collaborative setting. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections worldwide, working together to solve today's and tomorrow's global challenges.