Postdoctoral fellow in cardiac physiology with a focus on optical imaging 100%

Department of Physiology
Start of employment: 01.11.2025 or by arrangement
The position is limited to two years, with the possibility of extension.
Our laboratory has developed novel approaches to correlate the nanoscale structure of protein arrangements and membrane systems with the physiology of calcium regulation in cardiac muscle. This approach will be used to improve our understanding of cardiac dysfunction and loss of contractility so that we and others may ultimately propose new treatment regimens for cardiac diseases.

We house one of only two MINFLUX microscopes in Switzerland, a technology that allows us to image individual receptors in heart cells as showcased in our recent preprint [1]. One goal of this project is to establish the 3D tracking of receptors and channels, such as the cardiac ryanodine receptor, in live cells and obtain new insights into the functional consequences of receptor distribution plasticity in myocytes.

We are looking for a well-trained researcher who will conduct and design experiments using our advanced imaging and analysis techniques. Tasks will include:
• Design and conduct experimental series of physiological experiments
• Design and conduct optical super-resolution imaging experiments of cardiac myocytes
• Advanced image and statistical analysis of experimental data
• Scientific writing to the highest standard and compilation of high impact research publications
• Supervision of Masters and Doctoral students
• Longer term: Develop independent research projects and apply for external research funding

Experience should include fluorescence imaging, ideally some super-resolution fluorescence imaging, physiological calcium imaging in cardiac preparations, image data analysis and general physiology/biophysics training.

1. Clowsley, A. H. et al. Analysis of RyR2 distribution in HEK293 cells and mouse cardiac myocytes using 3D MINFLUX microscopy. biorxiv https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.07.26.550636 (2025).

• MD or PhD in a medical, biological or biophysical discipline with a suitable quantitative background.
• Experience in some of the key techniques including fluorescence microscopy, confocal microscopy, calcium imaging, super-resolution microscopy (especially single molecule localization microscopy), cardiac tissue preparation, cardiac myocyte cell isolation and tissue processing (cryo-sectioning).
• Ideally some quantitative skills to conduct quantitative image analysis.
• Good speaking knowledge of English or German

Please send your application by 10 October 2025, including (1) a cover letter expressing your interest, (2) curriculum vitae with qualifications, professional experience and publication list, as well as (c) contact details of 2 referees (or their reference letters) by email addressed to Professor Christian Soeller : E-Mail schreiben. See also bit.ly/soellerlab .

Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis. Informal pre-enquiries are very welcome.