Postdoctoral Researcher / 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 invites applications for a Postdoc position in the field of 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), collaborating with esteemed partners including M. Bohner from RMS Foundation, R. Müller from ETH Zurich, and E. Wehrle from ARI Davos. The project aims to explore a novel mechanism that explains bone formation in soft tissue, referred to as heterotopic ossification. According to this mechanism, tissue mineralization may induce a persistent local ionic homeostatic imbalance (SLIHI), altering extracellular calcium levels to potentially modulate inflammation and trigger bone formation. The ultimate goal of this project is to validate this mechanism and leverage it for the healing of large bone defects.

Project Background

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a prevalent and sometimes debilitating condition characterized by the development of mature bone in soft tissues. The mechanisms behind HO are still not fully understood, and existing therapies for preventing and treating HO have shown limited efficacy, often necessitating surgical removal of bone. This aberrant bone formation results from an osteoinductive process in which stem cells are transformed into bone cells, a process crucial for treating large bone defects. Currently, osteoinduction is typically achieved through the implantation of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), although the safety of these agents has been questioned. An alternative involves the use of osteoinductive bone graft substitutes, although their effectiveness remains debated. Elucidating the role of low extracellular calcium levels in triggering bone formation could offer new avenues for developing effective osteoinductive graft substitutes and enhancing impaired bone healing.

Project Team and Setup: This multidisciplinary project has engaged 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 technologies. This collaborative interdisciplinary approach aims to design calcium phosphate materials with controlled architecture and composition, assessing their mineralization rates in vitro and in vivo. The levels of extracellular calcium and the tissue responses surrounding these materials will be monitored through various multimodal techniques, including time-lapsed in vivo imaging, multiphoton intravital microscopy, spatial transcriptomics, and proteomics.

Job Description

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

• 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 incorporate ratiometric imaging for assessing bone marrow interstitial pH and calcium concentrations.
• Providing imaging support for in vivo experiments.

Profile

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

Workplace

ETH Zurich offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment fostering innovation and professional growth.

We Offer

• Your job will have a significant impact: become part of ETH Zurich, which actively supports professional growth and contributes positively to society.
• An engaging and diverse role in an exciting and innovative organization.
• Opportunity to work within a highly committed multidisciplinary team.
• Regular meetings and collaborative efforts with Sinergia project partners.
• Access to numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide array of sports activities offered by ASVZ, childcare options, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

Aligned with our core values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity and valuing diversity. We nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Our commitment to sustainability is unwavering, as we continually strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Please include the following documents:

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

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For more information about the Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics, visit our website. Inquiries regarding this position should be directed to Prof. Dr. Ralph Müller at ram@ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is a leading university globally, specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct knowledge transfer into society, ETH Zurich is home to over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, fostering an environment that encourages independent thinking and inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, we collaborate globally to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.