Scientific Assistant / Scientific Assistantess

Job Opportunity: Research Position in Neuroscience

The brain is a highly intricate system composed of billions of neurons that interact in complex ways. Capturing network activity at a single-cell level from various brain regions is crucial for understanding how the brain executes its cognitive functions. Current methods for interfacing with the brain face challenges in terms of temporal resolution, biocompatibility, and the ability to access deep brain areas. To address these challenges, we have developed Ultra-Flexible Tentacle Electrodes (UFTEs), which are composed of fibers an order of magnitude smaller than human hair (2.4 µm x 7 µm cross-sectional area). These electrodes enable us to record single-unit activity from multiple brain regions in freely moving rodents with remarkable stability over almost a year. Unlike traditional rigid electrodes, UFTEs evade detection by the brain's immune system and offer a superior signal-to-noise ratio compared to state-of-the-art flexible electrodes (Yasar & Gombkoto et al., Nature Communications, 2024).

Although we have successfully demonstrated the in vivo validation of UFTEs, additional steps are needed to facilitate their widespread adoption as an advanced research tool within the neuroscience community. With the support of a project grant from Innosuisse, we aim to enhance the user-friendliness and scalability of UFTEs, integrate multimodal recording/stimulation capabilities, and adapt them for non-human primate studies. The ultimate goal is to position UFTEs in the market as a leading research tool.

Key Responsibilities

• Soldering electrical components and UFTEs to printed circuit boards.
• 3D printing, machining, and electrochemical manufacturing of components for surgical insertion and secure shipment of UFTEs.
• Assembling surgery-ready UFTEs for in-house use or shipping to collaborators.

Position Details

This is a 1.5-year position expected to start in April 2026 (exact start date to be agreed upon). Future positions may become available depending on interest and funding.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in natural sciences or engineering.
• Preferred skills: Assembly and manipulation of small components (hobbies requiring fine motor skills and patience, such as knitting or model building, are also beneficial), basic chemical benchwork, and soldering electrical components.
• Quick learner with the ability to reliably follow protocols and adjust/troubleshoot as needed.
• Strong communication skills with a focus on organized documentation.

Why Join Us?

• An opportunity to delve into the exciting fields of neural interfaces and neuroscience within a highly interdisciplinary environment at a world-leading university.
• Be at the forefront of developing our neural implant technology for commercialization.
• Engage in the full lifecycle of research, from design and assembly to practical applications in in vivo brain-machine interface studies.
• Access to a robust network of neuroscientists and engineers at the Institute of Neuroinformatics, Neuroscience Center Zurich (ZNZ), and our global collaborating labs.
• Enjoy flexible working hours with competitive compensation (dependent on working percentage, educational level, and experience, in accordance with ETH Zurich standards), along with social security benefits and additional perks from ETH Zurich.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Please ensure that your application includes:

• CV
• A letter of motivation detailing why you are interested in working with us (maximum one page).
• One or two reference letters from past supervisors/employers (if available).
• Transcripts of your studies.

For further information about the department, please visit our website. Inquiries regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Tansel Baran Yasar at yasart@ethz.ch.

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.