Postdoc - Harschnitz Group - NeuroCOV project

APPLICATION CLOSING DATE:  31st of May 2023

The lab of Oliver Harschnitz is searching for a postdoctoral researcher to contribute to the new EU project NeuroCOV (https://www.neurocov.eu/) funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe Framework Programme for Research and Innovation.

Human Technopole (HT) is a new interdisciplinary life science research institute, created and supported by the Italian Government, with the aim of developing innovative strategies to improve human health. HT is composed of five Centres: Neurogenomics, Computational Biology, Structural Biology, Genomics, and Health Data Science. The Centres work together to enable interdisciplinary research and to create an open, collaborative environment that will help promote life science research both nationally and internationally.

In the Harschnitz Group, we are particularly interested in the molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie susceptibility to viral and autoimmune disease of the human nervous system and the molecular drivers of chronic neuroinflammation. We develop and use cutting edge human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) technology to establish human in vitro disease models to study neuroinflammation directly in human, disease-relevant cells. Our group takes a multidisciplinary approach, combining our state-of-the-art human stem cell models with high-content chemical or genetic screens, single-cell analyses, and advanced high resolution imaging technology.

The successful candidate will be part of the NeuroCOV project, an interdisciplinary consortium that will investigate the host-virus interplay in the occurrence of neurological and psychiatric symptoms resulting from COVID-19. Specifically, the successful candidate will develop novel hPSC-based (co-)culture systems and organoid models to dissect host-virus interactions within the central nervous system (CNS), identifying host viral restriction factors against SARS-CoV-2 using whole genome screens as well as developing a pipeline to screen for candidate drugs targeting SARS-CoV-2 induced neuroinflammation.

We are looking for a highly motivated, independent, and creative stem cell biologist or virologist to study the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the CNS. The postdoctoral fellow will use a combination of state-of-the-art hPSC technology in combination with whole genome CRISPR-Cas9 screens, single-cell genomics, and high-resolution imaging. They will be part of a multidisciplinary environment and international environment, with the opportunity to learn new methods and be highly supported in developing their scientific career.

The position offers a competitive salary and benefits in the vibrant, international scientific environment of Human technopole within the Neurogenomics Research Centre, with access to state-of-the-art facilities, like the Automated Stem Cell and Organoid Facility and the Light Microscopy facility.

(S)He will have the following main responsibilities:

• Designing and performing experiments in the fields of stem cell biology and virology;
• Performing whole-genome CRISPR/Cas genetic screens;
• Applying different bulk, single-cell, and spatial transcriptomic technologies;
• Conceiving and developing new ideas, approaches, and/or original technologies;
• Generating and recording data for publication;
• Drafting manuscripts and figures deriving from their own results;
• Interacting closely with other laboratory members and members of the NeuroCOV consortium;
• Presenting scientific results at relevant international meetings.

Job requirements

Essentials

• PhD in a relevant subject area (stem cell biology, virology, neuroscience, or similar)
• Proven independent working style, problem solving, and strong passion for science
• Willingness and ability to work in an open, transparent, and highly collaborative team

 Technical skills

• Strong molecular biology skills (e.g. cloning, Western blot, RTq-PCR)
• Solid expertise in genome editing and genetic screens
• Experience in human pluripotent stem cell culture, immunocytochemistry, and microscopy

Additional

• Knowledge of molecular biology, genomics, neuroscience, and virology
• Ability and interest to learn or develop new methodologies
• Excellent communication skills
• Fluency in English - HT is an international research institute
• Ability to work in an inclusive environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity

Special consideration will be given to candidates who are part of the protected categories list, according to L. 68/99

Application Instructions:

Please apply online by sending

• a CV in English
• a detailed motivation letter (up to 3 pages) in English clearly stating your motivation and fit
• names and contact information of 3 referees

We are a multidisciplinary team bound by a shared passion for science and an abundance of curiosity. Researchers from all backgrounds who share this common interest for neuroimmunology, stem cell biology, developmental biology, and science at large and would like to join the team are encouraged to apply.

Additional information

HT offers a highly collaborative, international culture to foster top quality, interdisciplinary research by promoting a vibrant environment consisting of independent research groups with access to outstanding graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and core facilities.

HT is an inclusive employer that fosters diversity and engages systematically to ensure that equal employment opportunities are provided without regard to age, race, creed, religion, sex, disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin or any other legally recognized status entitled to protection under applicable laws.

Number of positions offered: 1

Contract offered: fixed-term,  4 years
 

The role is based in Milan.