Research Associate, RNA/LNP

Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology

Research Associate, RNA/LNP %

Start of employment Immediate start or to be mutually agreed.

The group of Prof. Schwank is working on translational genome editing and cell-based therapies.

We are seeking a full-time Research Associate to support the experimental workflow of a translational project developing in vivo CAR T-cell therapies based on circular RNA–lipid nanoparticle technology.

Your responsibilities

As part of the delivery team, you will be responsible for RNA synthesis, purification, and quality assessment, LNP formulation and characterization, and binder/protein conjugation. You will be working closely with both the In Vivo and Molecular Biology teams to ensure seamless coordination between material generation and down-stream experimental studies.

This role combines wet-lab execution, lipid nanoparticle preparation, analytical support, and mammalian cell-culture work within a multidisciplinary translational environment.

Your profile

Candidates may come from various educational paths; relevant combinations of education and experience are equally valued. The candidate has at least a

• MSc in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related life science field with at least 2 years of laboratory experience in an academic or industrial research environment or a
• BSc or Apprenticeship in Life Sciences or a related field with more than 5 years of relevant experience.
• Experience in RNA synthesis and handling, lipid nanoparticle formulation and/or recombinant protein expression, purification and conjugation.
• Solid knowledge of standard molecular biology techniques, basic RNA as well as conjugation chemistry is required.
• Familiarity with DLS, UV-Vis spectrometry, and basic data analysis tools.
• Experience in cell culture and handling of primary cells.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills; ability to work independently and manage multiple parallel tasks.
• Collaborative mindset and clear communication across multidisciplinary teams.
• Prior experience with flow cytometry or ELISA is a plus.
• Exposure to animal study sample processing is a plus.

Information on your application

Please apply with a single PDF (CV, brief cover letter) to Dr. Andreas Reichmuth. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

What we offer

Work-Life Balance

• Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
• Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH

Learning and Development

• Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
• Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

Food

• Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
• Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

Healthcare

• Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
• Free seasonal flu vaccinations
• Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

Discounts

• Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
• Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
• Special conditions on hotel reservations

Conditions of Employment

• Policies of the UZH
• Most UZH staff are employed according to public law

International Services

• Support for people from outside Switzerland

Campuses

• Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
• Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

Location
Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology

Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland

Further information
Questions about the job

Andreas Reichmuth

Postdoc

Working at UZH

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer

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