Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Patriarchi Lab, Chemical Neuropharmacology

PhD student position in Optical Neurophysiology
60 %

The Patriarchi lab is embedded into the highly vibrant Zurich Neuroscience Center community ZNZ that combines leading researchers in the field of neuroscience from both the University of Zurich and the ETH Zurich. For further information please visit the link below of the Patriarchi lab.

Your responsibilities

The Patriarchi lab is searching for highly motivated, hard-working and talented PhD students.

In the project, the student will learn and use novel protein engineering and high-throughput screening techniques for the development of GPCR-based genetically encoded fluorescent sensors for neuromodulators [see: Patriarchi et al Science (2018) 360 (6396); Patriarchi et al Nat Protoc (2019) 14:3471-3505; Patriarchi et al Nat Methods (2020)]. The student will then have the opportunity to validate these new tools in brain slices and living animals, with a combination of slice electrophysiology/optogenetics, as well as in vivo imaging techniques (single and multi-fiber photometry) and will then use them to investigate important neuromodulatory functions in the mouse central nervous system.

Your profile

The candidate should have a M.Sc. in a relevant discipline (e.g. biotechnology, molecular biology, neuroscience, etc.), a very creative approach to science, and a track record of accomplishments (evidenced by co-author publications in the respective field). Furthermore, candidates are expected to be able to work independently and in teams, and have excellent English written and oral communication skills. Prior experience with protein engineering and/or optogenetic techniques will be considered an asset.

What we offer

The University of Zurich offers an outstanding working environment. For detailed information, please see below "Working at UZH".

Place of work

Winterthurerstrasse 190, CH-8057 Zurich

Start of employment

Employment start date to be mutually agreed or 01/02/2021.