Research Assistant (100%) – Investigating the impact of 2D Materials, pesticides and chemicals on the intestinal and skin barrier using in vitro co-culture models
Empa, Materials Science and Technology
Publication date:
11 April 2025Workload:
100%Contract type:
Unlimited employment- Place of work:St. Gallen
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Job summary
Empa is a leading research institution focused on materials science. Join us for impactful research in a vibrant work environment.
Tasks
- Investigate the effects of 2D materials on biological barriers.
- Establish and maintain in vitro barrier models in the lab.
- Analyze cell viability and inflammatory responses to chemicals.
Skills
- MSc in biology, toxicology, or related field required.
- Experience with cell culture and microscopy techniques.
- Proficient in data analysis and English communication.
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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.
Research Assistant (100%) – Investigating the impact of 2D Materials, pesticides and chemicals on the intestinal and skin barrier using in vitro co-culture models
The Nanomaterials in Health 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
Understanding the effects of 2D materials, pesticides and chemicals on biological barriers is crucial for assessing their potential risks to human health. The intestinal and skin barriers serve as primary defense mechanisms and their disruption can lead to systemic exposure, toxicity or inflammatory responses. This project aims to evaluate barrier integrity, cell viability and molecular responses using advanced in vitro biobarrier models. It is part of the EU CHIASMA project, aiming to develop and demonstrate a comprehensive set of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) and integrate them into a user-friendly, reliable and robust framework for human and environmental safety evaluation in a regulatory context.
Your key tasks will include:
- Establishing and maintaining intestinal and skin in vitro barrier models in the cell culture lab
- Assessing barrier integrity using NaFlu (sodium fluorescein) size exclusion assays
- Evaluating cell viability through MTT and LDH assays to determine cytotoxic effects and establish dose-response curves
- Quantifying relevant protein expression via immunostaining techniques to assess molecular changes upon exposure
- Analyzing the effects of different chemicals and materials on barrier functionality, viability and inflammatory responses
- Documenting, analyzing, and interpreting experimental results
Your profile
- MSc. degree in biology, toxicology, life sciences or a related field
- High motivation to work in an interdisciplinary project
- Experience with cell culture work
- Expertise in microscopy and immunochemical stainings
- Skills in data analysis and interpretation
- Proficient in both written and spoken English
Our offer
- A highly stimulating research environment in the Empa laboratories in St.Gallen
- Access to state-of-the-art infractructure and equipment
- Opportunity for close collaborations with experts from different fields (engineers, chemists, clinicians)
- 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 starting from September 2025 or upon agreement, for an initial duration of 1 year.
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.
