Postdoctoral Fellow in Antigen-Specific Tolerance Induction 80-100%

The Project

Peptide-red blood cells (pcRBC) are an antigen-specific therapy for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), currently undergoing clinical testing. This postdoc position focuses on characterizing tolerance mechanisms induced by pcRBC in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) as a model for multiple sclerosis. The project extends previously established foundations by defining the spatial organization of immunoregulatory microenvironments and the molecular mechanisms underlying antigen-specific suppression of pathogenic T-cell responses.

Your Profile

We seek candidates with a PhD in immunology, biology, neuroscience, or a related field who have demonstrated expertise in autoimmune disease animal models, particularly EAE or similar in vivo inflammatory models. You should have a strong background in flow cytometry, including multi-parameter analysis and cell sorting, along with experience in histological techniques and immunofluorescence microscopy. Proficiency in molecular biology methods, including RNA isolation, qPCR, and transcriptomic data analysis, is required. Also, prior work with primary cell cultures and ex vivo systems is expected. Your publication record should demonstrate experimental rigor and scientific writing ability. English fluency is mandatory.

What We Offer

The position operates within an established research program with secured funding and active clinical collaboration. You will have access to single-cell transcriptomic datasets and high-dimensional imaging platforms with technical support from the university´s core facilities. The UZH Campus Schlieren provides comprehensive infrastructure for in vivo and ex vivo studies. We offer a competitive Swiss salary according to UZH guidelines. The work has direct translational relevance through ongoing clinical trials with MS patients.

Our employees benefit from a wide range of attractive offers. More information about working at UZH is available at More information about working at UZH

About the Institute

The Institute of Laboratory Animal Science is engaged in research, curricular teaching, and continuing education. Our research focus is on animal welfare, reproductive medicine, and immunology by use of preclinical models. We teach students from veterinary and human medicine as well as biology and biomedicine. Our continuing education program in laboratory animal science is among the world's largest and is complemented with a program on gender-specific medicine. Our interdisciplinary team of veterinarians, biomedical scientists, technicians, and administrators shares a passion for advancing research and education. The institute is located at the new UZH Campus Schlieren, dedicated to biomedical research in the Biotechno-Park Schlieren environment, where scientists in startups, pharma, hospitals, the ETH, and the University of Zurich work together.

Application

Please send a single PDF titled PD2025_familyname to giliregina.orpeli@uzh.ch containing your CV with publication list, a brief statement (maximum 2 pages) addressing your qualification for the position, and contact information for 2-3 references. Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the position is filled.

Further Information

Questions about the position:
Prof. Dr. Thorsten Buch
thorsten.buch@uzh.ch