Research Associate, Mitochondrial Therapy Translational Research (100%)

Ref.: IOB169

The Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB) is seeking an experi-enced and highly motivated Research Associate to join the Mitochondrial Biology and Ther-apy Group led by Dr. Temurkhan Ayupov.
IOB combines basic and clinical research to advance the understanding of vision and its diseases and to develop new therapies for vision loss. We offer an environment where your expertise will be valued, your abilities challenged, and your scientific knowledge expanded.

The Mitochondrial Biology and Therapy Group investigates how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to neurodegeneration and develops therapeutic strategies for these diseases. A major focus is the development of cell-type-targeted mitochondrial transfer therapies. To accelerate this work, we are establishing genome-wide CRISPR screening as a discovery platform to identify genes and pathways that govern donor mitochondria internalization and integration. In this role you will design, execute, and analyze pooled CRISPR knockout, activation, and interference screens to uncover novel therapeutic targets and contribute to the group's translational programs.

Your position

• Design and execute genome-wide CRISPR knockout, CRISPRa, and CRISPRi screens in mammalian cell models
• Validate screening hits using arrayed CRISPR experiments and orthogonal func-tional assays in relevant disease models
• Establish, optimize, and routinely perform cell-line generation workflows using mito-chondrial transfer in immortalized and primary cells
• Generate and analyze NGS and RNA-seq data from primary tissues and cultured cells
• Develop and optimize cell-type-targeted mitochondrial transfer approaches in rele-vant in vitro and ex vivo models
• Independently design, perform, document, and interpret experiments in a rigorous and reproducible manner
• Work closely with technical staff and help supervise research assistants while re-maining experimentally active
• Contribute experimentally to translational documentation, regulatory preparation, and clinical protocol development
• Present experimental results internally, to collaborators, and at international confer-ences
• Mentor junior lab members through direct experimental guidance and training

Your profile

• PhD in biology, cell biology, molecular medicine, or a related field
• Strong hands-on experience with CRISPR-based screening and NGS analysis
• Solid background in cell culture, molecular biology, and in vitro functional assays
• Experience with recombinant protein production
• Experience with RNA sequencing is desirable
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage large-scale, multi-step ex-periments
• Experience working under BSL-2 conditions
• Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to experimental detail
• Clear scientific communication skills and a collaborative working style

We offer you

• Scientific Excellence & Impact – Join a highly motivated research institute at the forefront of vision research, supported by state-of-the-art facilities in an international, cutting-edge research environment in Basel
• An Environment Built for Performance – We create conditions that enable you to do your best work: A commitment to supporting long-term excellence and family-friendly policies
• Practical Support & Accessibility – Convenient Basel location with excellent public transport, subsidized meals, childcare support, and access to university sports facili-ties (Unisport)
• A Culture of Mutual Trust – We seek colleagues who bring motivation, innovation, and dedication; in return, we provide the resources, flexibility, and environment where exceptional work thrives