Postdoctoral Researcher in Multiphoton Intravital Imaging / Postdoctoral Researcheress 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), in collaboration with M. Bohner (RMS Foundation, Bettlach), R. Müller (ETH Zurich), and E. Wehrle (ARI Davos). The project focuses on a newly proposed mechanism that explains the formation of bone in soft tissue, also known as heterotopic ossification. This mechanism posits that tissue mineralization may induce a sustained local ionic homeostatic imbalance (SLIHI), and the resultant decrease in extracellular calcium may modulate inflammation, thereby triggering bone formation. The overarching goal of the project is to validate this mechanism and apply it to the healing of large bone defects.

Project Background

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a common and often debilitating pathology characterized by the formation of mature bone in soft tissues. The underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood, while existing therapies to prevent and heal HO have demonstrated low efficacy, sometimes necessitating surgical removal of the bone. This ectopic bone formation is the result of an osteoinductive process, during which stem cells differentiate into bone cells, a key property essential for treating large bone defects. Currently, osteoinduction can be achieved through the implantation of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), though concerns regarding the safety of BMPs have arisen. Another option involves the use of osteoinductive bone graft substitutes, which often have low potency and contentious underlying mechanisms. Understanding how low extracellular calcium concentration triggers bone formation may pave the way for innovative designs of potent osteoinductive bone graft substitutes and enhancements in treating impaired bone healing.

Project Team and Setup: This initiative follows a multidisciplinary collaborative approach and includes three PhD students specializing in material science, advanced in vivo imaging, and in vivo molecular biology. The Postdoc position at LBB, ETH Zurich, focuses on the further development of our multiphoton intravital imaging technology. This collaborative team structure enables the design of calcium phosphate materials with controlled architecture and composition, allowing assessments of their mineralization rates both in vitro and in vivo. The levels of extracellular calcium and tissue responses surrounding the materials will be monitored using multimodal approaches, including time-lapse in vivo imaging, multiphoton intravital microscopy, spatial transcriptomics, and proteomics.

Job Description

We seek a highly motivated Postdoc to join the Institute for Biomechanics at ETH Zurich for the multiphoton intravital imaging work package within the SLIHI4BONE project. As a Postdoc, you will engage closely with collaboration partners at RMS Foundation and ARI Davos. Your responsibilities will include:

• Developing intravital imaging protocols for HO and impaired bone healing using time-lapse micro-computed tomography and multiphoton microscopy.
• Extending intravital imaging technology to incorporate ratiometric imaging for quantifying bone marrow interstitial pH and calcium concentrations.
• Providing imaging support for in vivo experiments.

Profile

• PhD degree in physics or biophysics.
• Experience in intravital imaging as demonstrated by first-author publications is required.
• Previous experience with ratiometric imaging is advantageous.
• Prior experience with in vivo animal models is beneficial.
• Excellent communication skills in English (both oral and written) are essential.
• High motivation and a strong interest in skeletal research, alongside the durability to cope with challenges.
• The ability to solve complex tasks independently.
• Familiarity with a cross-cultural/interdisciplinary environment is an advantage.

Workplace

ETH Zurich is renowned for its commitment to fostering an inclusive culture that values diversity. We create an environment where all staff and students are respected, enabling everyone to flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us; we work diligently towards a climate-neutral future.

We Offer

• A position that makes an impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which supports your professional development while contributing positively to society.
• An interesting and varied role within an innovative organization.
• Collaboration within a highly committed multidisciplinary team.
• Regular meetings and close cooperation with Sinergia project partners.
• Numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car-sharing opportunities, a wide range of sports offered by ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension benefits.

Curious? So Are We!

Apply online using the form below. Please ensure your application includes:

• Motivation letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Publication list
• Names and contact details of two academic references

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. While the start date is flexible, we aim to conclude the recruitment process before the end of January 2026.

For further information about the Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics, please visit our website. Direct inquiries regarding the position can be directed to Prof. Dr. Ralph Müller at ram@ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology, known for its excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries recognize our university as a place that promotes independent thinking and an inspiring environment for excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we foster connections globally as we collectively seek solutions to today's and tomorrow's challenges.