Postdoc on the effects of ultrafine pollution particles and micro-/nanoplastics at the human placenta

Key information

Publication date:06 December 2024
Workload:100%
Contract type:Temporary
Place of work:Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen

Postdoc on the effects of ultrafine pollution particles and micro-/nanoplastics at the human placenta

Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.

The Particles-Biology Interactions Lab enables particle-based solutions for diagnostics and therapeutics driven by clinical needs. We are active in characterizing, understanding and steering the interaction of particulate materials with human cells or tissues and provide expertise in the interdisciplinary field of particulate materials safety and applications for industry or authorities.

Your tasks

Ultrafine pollution particles (UFPs) and micro-/nanoplastics (MNPs) are emerging global contaminants of significant concern, with growing evidence linking them to adverse effects on pregnancy. We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic team player to lead activities towards achieving novel fundamental insights into the molecular developmental toxicity mechanisms of UFPs and MNPs at the maternal-fetal interface. To achieve human-relevant results of high predicitve value, you will use state-of-the art human placenta models (e.g. explant cultures, ex vivo perfusion models or microphysiological chip). The project will be carried out within an interdisciplinary and international consortium, with access to data from clinical cohort studies and environmental monitoring.

Your profile

PhD degree in biology, biomedical engineering, life science or a related field

High motivation to work in an interdisciplinary project

Extensive experience with advanced cell/tissue culture work

Expertise in the field of nanotoxicology, transcriptomics/epigenomics and particle characterization is highly beneficial

Excellent skills at science communication (verbal and written)

Our offer

We offer a highly stimulating research environment in the Empa laboratories in St.Gallen with

Access to state-of-the-art infractructure and equipment

Opportunity for close collaborations with experts from different fields (engineers, chemists, clinicians)

Support to present work at scientific conferences and to publish in high quality journals

Support for personal development

The project will be carried out at Empa St.Gallen under the supervision of Dr. Tina Buerki-Thurnherr. The position is available from January 2025 or after negotiation, for an initial duration of 2 years with possiblity for extension.

We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities - that's what counts.

We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.

Sarah Stüdli,
Bereichspersonalleiterin / HR Partner