The Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB) is seeking a highly motivated Electrophysiology Research Associate / Assistant to take part in IOB’s vision restoration development program. The candidate will be integrated into the Ophthalmic Translation Research Group.

IOB is a research institute combining basic and clinical research. Its mission is to drive innovations in understanding vision and its diseases and develop new therapies for vision loss. It is a place where your work will have a high degree of meaning, your expertise will be valued and your abilities challenged.

We seek an exemplary scientist to join our efforts in developing therapies for vision loss. The successful candidate will pursue experimental work in testing optogenetic, sensor-based gene therapy vectors to restore photosensitivity in the retina. The candidate will use microelectrode array (MEA) technologies in post-mortem human and mouse retinas. The successful candidate will also take part in the data analysis and work closely with other experimentalists and data analysts at IOB.

The ideal candidate will have a background in electrophysiology, be comfortable handling sensitive biological tissues and be curious about the biological and technical processes.

The position has a duration of 3 years.

• Perform MEA recordings on human retinal explants on a regular basis
• Regular travel to donation sites to perform MEA recordings in the local IOB facility
• High degree of responsibility and reliability
• Contribute to experimental planning and improving experimental pipeline
• Help in the processing and interpretation of the data
• Maintain clear and accurate communication with supervisor and other team members

• MSc or PhD or equivalent experience in Neuroscience or related discipline
• Experience in electrophysiology, including recordings and data analysis
• Experience with MEA or other functional characterization of neurons is a plus
• Experience with dissection and handling of the sensitive tissues, organs or cultures is a strong plus
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
• Work with high flexibility and willingness to perform experiments outside normal working hours
• Track record of scientific excellence and independent thinking

• Competitive salary among the academic world.
• Five weeks of vacation for all employees, with increasing amount of vacation days by age.
• Paid Maternity-leave up to 16 weeks plus the opportunity to extend it through unpaid leave.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development, including training and education support.
• Family Friendly: we offer childcare subsidy, a family room, etc.
• The chance to be part of a groundbreaking research institute making a real impact in the field of medical science.
• Additional discounts and benefits: e.g. cafeteria, access to the Uni Sport offerings at university Basel, and more.