Postdoctoral position - University of Lausanne, Switzerland

The Department of Physiology of the University of Lausanne is seeking an extremely motivated, energetic and highly collaborative researcher with a strong interest in the field of muscle metabolism research in aging and diabetes.

Position description:

The successful candidate will be part of the Aging and Muscle Metabolism lab, a dynamic multidisciplinary research group using multiple models going from translational studies (human interventions) to primary cell culture models encompassing biologists, physicians and exercise physiologists. Techniques to be used include standard molecular biology protocols, cell cultures, metabolic assays (respirometry, substrate assays), body composition and in vivo imaging, microscopy and electron microscopy.

The selected candidate will assist in establishing the zebrafish/killfish facility. At least 50% of the working time will be devoted for personal research. The rest of the working time will be dedicated to academic functions including developing and maintaining the zebrafish facility, housekeeping and breeding, as well as teaching assistance and participating in the lab common activities.

Requirements:

The candidate should hold a PhD in biology, physiology, zoology, metabolism or equivalent field.  A strong interest in muscle metabolism is required. 

Experience in zebrafish (and/or killifish) handling, aquaculture techniques and zebrafish genetics are required. Strong background in molecular and cell biology is also needed. Technical ability in imaging techniques and an excellent knowledge in zerbrafish anatomy are essential. Experience with other systems such as primary muscle cell culture and metabolic assays is valuable but not a requirement.

Good knowledge of spoken and written English is compulsory. Candidate should have at least one first-author paper published in a peer-reviewed journal.

The position will require having an enthusiastic personality with a team player attitude, bonded with the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team. Proven capacity of independent working style is a necessity, as well as the ability to communicate ideas and results, problem solving, data analysis and generation of novel ideas. The candidate should be able to work with flexibility, sometimes overnight or early morning experiments, and adapt to last minute deadlines.

Exceptional PhD student candidates with demonstrated research experience in zebrafish and able to fit the above description may also be considered.

To apply:

If interested please send the following documents to Prof. Francesca Amati (francesca.amati@unil.ch): A letter explaining the candidate’s interest in the position, Curriculum Vitae, Contact information for at least 3 references (including details of their relationship with the candidate), copies of degrees and certificates and electronic versions of the Doctoral thesis (or master thesis if PhD candidate) and all publications.

The position will be filled as soon as possible, but no later than October 1, 2015. The contract (100%, including benefits) will be done for one year, with renewal possibilities.  Deadline for application: August 15, 2015.