Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoctoral Position: 3D Imaging and Organ-on-Chip Models of Human Lung Lymphatics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Halin Lab at ETH Zürich investigates the intersection of immunology and lymphatic vascular biology, employing cutting-edge microscopy and transcriptomic approaches to explore lymphatic morphology and leukocyte migration. We are currently seeking a postdoctoral researcher to study the structure and function of human pulmonary lymphatic networks in both health and chronic lung disease.

Project Background

This project, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and conducted in partnership with the University of Bern, utilizes advanced 3D microscopy, organ-on-chip technology, and mechanobiological methods to analyze lymphatic remodeling and immune cell dynamics in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Job Description

• Collaborate with partners in Bern to develop multi-compartment organ-on-chip systems that integrate lymphatic and vascular networks under physiologically relevant mechanical conditions.
• Utilize your expertise in lymphatic vascular biology to characterize these networks in terms of morphology (e.g., junctional organization) and function.
• Employ the models to investigate lymphangiogenesis, immune cell recruitment, and lymphatic drainage under steady-state and COPD-like inflammatory conditions.
• Examine 3D lymphatic and blood vascular networks in healthy and COPD human lung tissues utilizing light-sheet and confocal microscopy.
• Contribute to the teaching and supervision of Master's students at ETH.

Profile

We seek a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a solid background in vascular or lymphatic biology. Candidates should possess a passion for interdisciplinary science and a strong commitment to collaborative research.

Requirements

• PhD in Vascular Biology, Cell Biology, Mechanobiology, or a related field.
• Solid expertise in vascular biology, ideally paired with knowledge of mechanobiology and microfluidic engineering.
• Excellent microscopy skills (confocal, multiphoton, and ideally light-sheet imaging).
• Hands-on experience with primary endothelial cell culture and standard molecular techniques (flow cytometry, Western blot, qPCR, ELISA).
• Experience in working with organ-on-chip or microphysiological systems is a plus.
• First-author publication(s) in peer-reviewed journals (published or submitted).
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to independently develop and drive a research project while collaborating within a multidisciplinary team.

Workplace

Join an innovative and dynamic environment within the Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences at ETH Zürich.

We Offer

• A stimulating, supportive, and international research environment.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and technologies, including advanced imaging and molecular platforms.
• Close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and clinician scientists at the University of Bern.
• The opportunity to engage in cutting-edge translational research at the intersection of vascular biology, immunology, respiratory medicine, and microfluidic engineering.
• A competitive salary and employment conditions in accordance with ETH Zürich and SNSF regulations (project funded for 4 years).

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that champions equality of opportunity, values diversity, and nurtures a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about how we promote a fair and open environment that enables everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value, and we are continuously working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

This position will remain open until filled. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

To apply online, please use the form below.

• CV and publication list
• Motivation letter
• University degree certificates
• Names and contact details of two referees

For further information about our institute, you can visit our website. For scientific inquiries, please contact Prof. Dr. Cornelia Halin Winter at cornelia.halin@pharma.ethz.ch.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries consider ETH a place that fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we collaborate globally to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's challenges.