mesoSPIM Platform of the URPP Adaptive Brain Circuits in Development and Learning (AdaBD)
Research Assistant in Tissue Clearing, Immunolabeling, and Light-Sheet Microscopy
The mesoSPIM platform is a joint technology platform between University Research Priority Program "Adaptive Brain Circuits in Development and Learning" (URPP AdaBD), Brain Research Institute, and Center for Microscopy and Data Analysis (ZMB). We are an open-source initiative with the mission to make light-sheet microscopy of cleared tissues available to every researcher who needs it. We develop custom light-sheet microscopes, provide documentation and instructions how to build and use them, and offer training and support for the users from University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, and partner institutions who conduct their own biomedical research projects.
Research Assistant in Tissue Clearing, Immunolabeling, and Light-Sheet Microscopy
50 %
The mesoSPIM platform is a joint technology platform between University Research Priority Program "Adaptive Brain Circuits in Development and Learning" (URPP AdaBD), Brain Research Institute, and Center for Microscopy and Data Analysis (ZMB). We are an open-source initiative with the mission to make light-sheet microscopy of cleared tissues available to every researcher who needs it. We develop custom light-sheet microscopes, provide documentation and instructions how to build and use them, and offer training and support for the users from University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, and partner institutions who conduct their own biomedical research projects.
Your responsibilities
As a member of the mesoSPIM platform you will become an expert in:- clearing of biological tissues with the modern techniques (vDISCO, wildDISCO, SHANEL, CLARITY, CUBIC, tissue expansion protocols)
- performing immunolabeling and staining of various tissues, such as mouse brains, bones, chicken embryos, human donor tissues
- imaging of the samples with mesoSPIM light-sheet microscopes
- basic image processing of large datasets (stitching, fusion, sharing, and visualization)
- communication with the platform users and advising them about sample labeling, clearing, mounting, and imaging
- keeping up-to-date with the literature and experimenting with new clearing techniques
Your profile
- MSc in Biomedical Sciences, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, Organic Chemistry, or a related field
- Practical knowledge of basic laboratory techniques, such as pipetting, preparing solutions, chemical safety, and working with laboratory equipment
- Experience in tissue processing and immunohistochemistry techniques, such as tissue fixation, antibody selection, optimization, and validation
- Experience with fluorescence microscopy, including image acquisition and familiarity with softwares such as ImageJ/Fiji
- Good organizational skills and attention to detail for maintaining accurate records of experiments, protocols, and data
- Curiosity and experiment-driven mindset
- Good communication skills
What we offer
We are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and collaboration. As an employer, we strive to provide a range of benefits and resources that help our employees to thrive both personally and professionally.As a platform, we offer flexible working hours and stimulating environment. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected.
Place of work
University of Zurich Irchel, Winterthurerstrasse, Zürich, SwitzerlandStart of employment
Employment start date to be mutually agreed. Please submit your application (CV and motivation letter) by 15.06.2023. The position is initially secured until 31.12.2024 and is expected to be extended until 31.12.2028.