Intestinal Immunity
Postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Prof. Ziad Al Nabhani for highly motivated candidates who are interested in studying how intestinal microbiota imprint the immune system development.
Project Early life immune-microbial mutualism can influence the host health at long- term. Recently, we showed that the first vigorous immune response to colonizing bacteria after birth occurs at weaning. This response termed "weaning reaction" is necessary to prevent the pathological imprinting of multiple immune-mediated and metabolic-related disorders later in life (Al Nabhani et al., Immunity 2019, Nature Metabolism 2019, Mucosal Immunology 2020). In the framework of SNSF project, we are seeking to gain knowledge regarding the immunological mechanisms that influence the weaning reaction induction. The project will involve contribution to the conception, design, and execution of research to address questions in host-microbial interactions; collaborate with other scientists and technical personnel; perform and lead new projects in the area of gut microbiome research and mucosal immunology.
The post-holder will be supported by a well-funded interdisciplinary research program in a young and dynamic environment at the Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, and at the Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital Bern, Switzerland. We have a national and international collaborative network in which the postdoc will be involved.
Required Minimum Qualifications
The applicant must have a doctorate (PhD) degree obtained after January 2022 or will defend his/her PhD within the next four months. The candidate should have a strong interest in mucosal immunology and microbiota and must be highly experienced in working with multicolor flow cytometry. Expertise in experimental single cell RNAseq, ATACseq, or analysis of microbiome datasets are advantages. Demonstrated competence to independently conduct experiments and willingness to collaborate internally and externally are mandatory.
We offer
We provide excellent scientific opportunities in a highly motivating environment with a multidisciplinary approach to microbial ecology and mucosal immunology discussions as well as seminars with wide-range topics. The project offers a special opportunity to be trained on experimental immunology using germ-free and gnotobiotic mouse models. We offer close supervision with ample support and interesting discussions. We support also participation in national and international research conferences.
Starting date: September 2023 or on agreement Duration: 3 years
Interested applicants should send the following materials in an application packet, preferably as a single PDF file, by email to Prof. Ziad Al Nabhani ([email protected]):
1- Cover letter indicating current and future research interests 2- Expected starting date 3- Curriculum vitae 4- Names and contact information for 2 referees or their references letter
Applications will be considered on an on-going basis.
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