Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcher

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 focused on 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), which involves collaboration with partners M. Bohner from RMS Foundation, R. Müller from ETH Zurich, and E. Wehrle from ARI Davos. The project investigates a newly proposed mechanism underlying the formation of bone in soft tissue, known as heterotopic ossification (doi:10.1016/j.mattod.2018.10.036), where tissue mineralization may lead to a sustained local ionic homeostatic imbalance (SLIHI) that modulates inflammation and triggers bone formation. The overarching goal is to validate this mechanism and explore its applications for healing large bone defects.

Project Background

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a prevalent and often debilitating condition characterized by the formation of mature bone in soft tissues. The mechanisms that drive this process remain poorly understood, and existing therapies for preventing and healing HO have limited effectiveness, often necessitating surgical removal of the bone. The occurrence of bone formation in soft tissue is attributed to an osteoinductive process, where stem cells differentiate into bone cells—an essential property for treating large bone defects. While osteoinduction is typically achieved through the implantation of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), concerns over their safety have arisen. Alternative strategies involve the use of osteoinductive bone graft substitutes; however, their efficacy is sometimes inadequate, and the mechanisms underlying their action are still debated. Investigating the role of low extracellular calcium concentrations in triggering bone formation could lead to innovative strategies for designing more effective osteoinductive materials and enhancing treatments for impaired bone healing.

Project Team and Setup: This project adopts a multidisciplinary collaborative approach, incorporating three PhD students focusing on material science, advanced in vivo imaging, and molecular biology. The Postdoc position at LBB, ETH Zurich, will focus on advancing our multiphoton intravital imaging technology. This collaborative structure will facilitate the development of calcium phosphate materials with controlled architecture and composition, enabling the assessment of their mineralization rates both in vitro and in vivo. We will employ multimodal approaches, including time-lapsed in vivo imaging, multiphoton intravital microscopy, spatial transcriptomics, and proteomics, to evaluate the levels of extracellular calcium and tissue responses surrounding the materials.

Job Description

We are seeking a motivated Postdoc to join the Institute for Biomechanics at ETH Zurich for the multiphoton intravital imaging work package within SLIHI4BONE. You will collaborate closely with Sinergia project partners at RMS Foundation and ARI Davos:

• Develop intravital imaging protocols for HO and impaired bone healing using time-lapsed micro-computed tomography and multiphoton microscopy.
• Extend intravital imaging technology to incorporate ratiometric imaging for quantifying bone marrow interstitial pH and calcium concentrations.
• Provide 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 advantageous.
• Excellent communication skills in English (oral and written) are essential.
• High motivation and a strong interest in skeletal research, with the resilience to tackle challenges.
• Ability to solve complex tasks independently.
• Familiarity with a cross-cultural/interdisciplinary environment is a plus.

Workplace

You'll be part of a dynamic and innovative research environment at ETH Zurich, known for pushing the boundaries in science and technology.

We Offer

• A meaningful job with impact: Join ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to societal advancement.
• An engaging and varied position in a stimulating and innovative organization.
• Collaboration within a dedicated multidisciplinary team.
• Regular meetings and close collaboration with Sinergia project partners.
• Numerous benefits including public transport season tickets, options for car sharing, a diverse range of sports activities offered by ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equal opportunities, value diversity, and nurture an environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Learn more on our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website about how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us; we are actively working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

To apply, please use the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities in science and technology. Renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and effective knowledge transfer to society, we pride ourselves on promoting independent thinking in our diverse community of over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Positioned in the heart of Europe, ETH Zurich is dedicated to developing solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.