Postdoc in Intravital Microscopy
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our group at the Department of Biology, ETH Zurich. The successful candidate will use state-of-the-art intravital microscopy to study macrophage biology and tissue repair in vivo.
Project background
Our lab investigates how tissue-resident immune cells, particularly macrophages, contribute to tissue homeostasis and repair, with a focus on the mesothelium, serosal cavities, and the liver. Using intravital imaging, we track cell behavior and dynamics in real time within living tissue, linking cellular mechanisms to organ-level repair processes. The project has a strong translational angle, motivated by clinical challenges in abdominal surgery such as adhesion formation, and is conducted in close collaboration with clinicians to bridge basic mechanistic insight with surgical practice.
Job description
- Design and perform intravital microscopy experiments in mouse models
- Extend intravital imaging approaches to additional organs
- Investigate macrophage dynamics and/or serosal repair mechanisms
- Analyze imaging data using quantitative and computational approaches
- Perform spectral flow cytometry and standard bioinformatics analysis of single-cell and spatial transcriptomics data, correlating findings with imaging data
- Present findings at lab meetings and international conferences
- Contribute to manuscript preparation and grant writing
- Co-supervise MSc/PhD students
Profile
- PhD in Immunology, Cell Biology, or a related field
- Prior experience with rodent models required
- An interest in tissue repair or regenerative biology is a plus
- Hands-on experience with intravital/in vivo imaging is an advantage
- Strong quantitative and image-analysis skills are an advantage
- Solid R and/or Python skills, ideally paired with modern AI-assisted coding workflows (e.g., Claude Code), are a clear advantage
- Track record of first-author publications
- Excellent written and spoken English; team-oriented mindset
We offer
- A newly established lab with cutting-edge fluorescent reporter models ready to be characterized
- A vibrant, founder-like atmosphere as an early member of a young, growing team
- Access to cutting-edge intravital imaging infrastructure
- A lab at the forefront of AI adoption in research, with access to high-end computational resources and environments — bring your own tricks
- Mentoring and career development support
- Initial 1-year contract with annual renewal; funding for the position is secured for up to 4 years.
We value diversity and sustainability
In line with
our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our
Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a
climate-neutral future.
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:
- CV
- Cover letter outlining your motivation and relevant experience
- Contact details of two references
- List of publications
- PhD certificate/transcript with grades
Further information about the group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to corina.bühlmann@biol.ethz.ch (no applications).
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in
science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education,
cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge
into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our
university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an
environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe,
yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to
develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.
