PhD student in host-pathogen interaction / drug discovery 100%

The Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) is a world-leading institute in global health with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries. Associated with the University of Basel, Swiss TPH combines research, education and services at local, national and international level. 950 staff and students from 95 nations work at Swiss TPH focusing on climate change, environment and health, infectious and non-communicable diseases, societal and cultural context, and health systems and policies.

The Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology (MPI) investigates the biology and transmission of pathogens. Findings from this research inform the development of new diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines against malaria, tuberculosis, schistosomiasis, Chagas and other neglected tropical diseases.

Within the Parasite Chemotherapy Unit of MPI, we are looking for a PhD student in host-pathogen interaction / drug discovery 100%.

We are seeking a PhD student for the research project "iPS technology to decipher leishmaniasis". This project is funded by the Walter-Fischli-Foundation. The successful applicant will be based at the Swiss TPH and registered for a PhD degree at the University of Basel, Switzerland. The anticipated start is in Fall 2024.

Your position

ABOUT THE PROJECT:

  • The project will be carried out in close collaboration with the Novartis Biomedical Research department in Basel, project leader Dr. Mélanie Pellisson.
  • The overall aim is to utilize induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell-derived human macrophages as an infection model for Leishmania parasites (see PLoS NTD 18: e0011559).
  • This enables drug discovery, mode of action studies, and genome-wide screening for genes involved in host-pathogen interaction.

Your profile

YOU SHOULD HAVE THE FOLLOWING EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:

  • Master's degree in the Life Sciences
  • Skills in cell biology and molecular biology
  • Strong interest in infection biology and drug discovery
  • Effective communication in spoken and written English
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a public-private collaborative team

We offer you

  • Great research project involving infection biology, stem cell research, and drug discovery
  • Working and networking experience in two different settings: Academia and Pharma
  • State-of-the-art workplace in our new building on the dynamic BaseLink site in Allschwil
  • Ph.D. degree from the renowned University of Basel


JOB CONDITIONS:
  • Start Date: Ideally 1. November 2024
  • Duration: 3 years
  • Percentage: 100%
  • Location: Allschwil, Switzerlande
  • Travel required: None
  • Internal job title: PhD Student

Application / Contact

Please submit your application online via https://jobs.swisstph.ch/Vacancies/1007/Description/2 with:
  • CV
  • Motivational letter including names and contact information (email or phone) of 1 – 2 references
  • Reference letters and diploma

Together, we can make the world a healthier place. We look forward to receiving your application.

Please note that we can only accept applications via our online recruiting tool. Applications via e-mail or external recruiter will not be considered.
The closing date for application is 30th September 2024.

To get more information about the position, please contact:
Pascal Mäser, pascal.maeser@swisstph.ch