Hosting SNSF Starting Grant Applicants

The Department of Biomedical Sciences (DBS) at the University of Lausanne (UNIL), Switzerland, is seeking outstanding researchers interested in applying for an
SNSF Starting Grant (May 2026 deadline)
. We invite expressions of interest from candidates who aim to establish an independent research group in the field of
biomedical sciences
.

About The Department
The DBS is part of the Faculty of Biology and Medicine at UNIL and comprises about
20 independent research groups
and over
100 researchers
working on fundamental and translational biomedical research. Our department offers a vibrant and collaborative research environment, with expertise spanning multiple levels of biological complexity, from
cell-based models to animal models and human studies
.

We are located in Lausanne, a dynamic scientific hub hosting several top-tier research institutions, offering access to cutting-edge core facilities and a stimulating academic environment. Our labs are located on the University Hospital campus, allowing for close collaboration with clinical colleagues. More about the department: DBS Website.

What We Are Looking For
We seek
outstanding scientists
with an exciting and innovative research vision who are competitive for an
SNSF Starting Grant
and wish to develop their career in an internationally competitive and interdisciplinary research environment.

We are particularly interested in colleagues whose research aligns with
departmental interests
, who are interactive, and for whom we can provide the best possible support for their applications and career progression. Our support involves
substantial commitment
-not just light-touch assistance-so a strong match between
the person, the project, and our environment
is essential.

Candidates Should
Be eligible for an
SNSF Starting Grant
(2-8 years of postdoctoral experience since PhD defence AND have a "Swiss-link"); Have an
outstanding publication record
in biomedical sciences; Be looking to develop an
independent research line
within our department; Have an ambitious and innovative research program.
What we offer
We Provide a Supportive And Stimulating Environment That Enables Candidates To Develop Their Independence And Progress Their Career To The Next Stage. We Will Provide Scientific And Administrative Support To Help Candidates Prepare Their Applications. Selected Candidates Who Are Successful In Obtaining An SNSF Starting Grant Will Receive

Full Principal Investigator status
and dedicated research space;
Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and core facilities
; Additional
flexible financial support
beyond that from the SNSF Starting Grant funds to cover access to core facilities, additional staff, and/or consumables costs.
Administrative support
for grant applications, HR, and purchasing;
Mentorship and training
in research group leadership and management;
Formal progress reviews
to support career development;
Experience in teaching and academic administration
, with minimal commitments;
Transition support
towards the next career stage-many awardees stay in Lausanne, while others secure faculty positions elsewhere. Successful candidates will also have full access to all
facilities and shared technology platforms
within the university, including next-generation sequencing, microscopy, and flow cytometry. The candidate will also be supported by an exceptional team of professional staff.

Application process
Interested candidates should submit the following documents
as a single PDF file
:

Curriculum Vitae
, including full publication list;
Motivation letter
(1 page);
Short statement outlining how the candidate meets the eligibility requirements for an SNSF starting grant
( Summary of current and proposed research plans for the next 5 years (2-3 pages);
Contact details of three referees
.
Deadline for submission: 5 January 2026
Applications should be sent via email as a single pdf to dsb-

We also invite
researchers who already hold similar external funding
and wish to relocate to Lausanne to contact us for opportunities.

Successful candidates may also be supported to apply for
ERC Starting Grants
, which are expected to have a submission deadline in October 2026.

We look forward to receiving your application