Job ID: 120121

PhD position in Microglia Biology

Position: Ph.D. Student

Deadline: 28 September 2024

Employment Start Date: 1 October 2024

City: Lausanne

Country: Switzerland

Institution: University of Lausanne

Department: Department of Biomedica Sciences

Description:

One funded PhD position is available in the Microglia Biology Lab, headed by Prof. Rosa Chiara Paolicelli at the Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, to study the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying microglia dysfunction in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration.

Microglia, the innate immune cells of the central nervous system, contribute to proper brain development and brain homeostasis across the life span. Recent evidence also points to microglia as critical players in neurodegenerative diseases. However, the underlying mechanisms are highly heterogeneous and still poorly defined.

The goal of the project is to study the role of genetic factors and metabolic regulation as modulators of microglial function and microglia-mediated synapse loss, by using in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo approaches. A variety of techniques will be used, including confocal microscopy, scRNA-sequencing and spatial transcriptomics, demyelination approaches, and behavioral characterization of mouse models. Previous experience in molecular biology, microscopy and/or animal handling is highly appreciated.

Candidates are required to be fluent in English (written and spoken), and to have a Master’s degree in life science or equivalent, and a strong interest in neurobiology.

The University of Lausanne is a higher teaching and research institution composed of seven faculties where approximately 15,000 students and nearly 5,000 collaborators, professors, and researchers work and study. Ideally situated along the lake of Geneva, near Lausanne’s city center, its campus brings together over 120 nationalities.

Highly motivated candidates are encouraged to apply by sending their CV, along with a motivation letter and two reference letters, to rosachiara.paolicelli@unil.ch