Postdoctoral Researcher

Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, one of Europe's leading academic medical centers, is part of the Insel Group and the University of Bern. The hospital combines outstanding patient care with excellent teaching and internationally recognized biomedical research.

The Department of Nephrology and Hypertension invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher (100%) to join an SNSF-funded research project investigating the molecular function of the sodium/proton exchanger NHA2 and its role in human disease.

This interdisciplinary project aims to uncover fundamental mechanisms of ion transport and cellular homeostasis by integrating molecular physiology, cell biology, and advanced imaging approaches with quantitative data analysis. Experimental work will involve cultured cells, high-resolution microscopy, and transgenic mouse models. The project is embedded in a collaborative research environment with access to state-of-the-art core facilities and opportunities to integrate bioinformatic and computational approaches.

What you can expect

The successful candidate will conduct independent research and contribute to the development of the project. Responsibilities include:

• Designing and performing experimental studies investigating NHA2 function and regulation
• Employing advanced imaging techniques, including confocal and live-cell microscopy
• Applying bioinformatic and statistical tools to analyze complex imaging and molecular datasets
• Preparing and publishing high-impact scientific manuscripts
• Contributing to grant applications and project development
• Presenting findings at national and international conferences
• Participating in the supervision and mentoring of Master and PhD students

Your Profile

You are a motivated, creative and scientifically rigorous researcher with the following qualifications:

• PhD or MD-PhD in physiology, biomedical sciences, molecular biology, or a related discipline
• Strong background in cell biology, membrane transport physiology, or closely related fields
• Hands-on experience with advanced microscopy techniques and rodent models
• Experience with quantitative data analysis and statistics (e.g., R, Python) is an advantage
• Familiarity with image analysis tools (ImageJ/Fiji, CellProfiler, or similar) is beneficial
• Proficiency with analysis of high-throughput datasets is desirable but not required
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; knowledge of German is an asset
• Strong communication skills, contributing to a thriving interdisciplinary research environment

We are looking for a scientist with a strong publication mindset, intellectual independence, and a genuine interest in mechanistic biology. Candidates should be motivated to drive projects forward with a high degree of initiative. Candidates comfortable working at the interface of experimental and computational approaches are particularly encouraged to apply.

Application

Enthusiastic candidates are encouraged to submit their application, including CV, publication list, and contact information for 2-3 references, to:

Prof. Daniel Fuster
Department of Nephrology and Hypertension
Inselspital, Bern University Hospital
E-Mail: daniel.fuster@unibe.ch

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.