Postdoctoral scientist position: Developing novel RNA therapeutics in Zürich

The Postdoctoral Scientist (100%), working in the Laboratory of Metabolic Disease at ETH Zurich, is also associated with a new research centre, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, that aims to make a difference for patients with cardiometabolic disease. The program focuses on developing new and improved treatments for metabolic diseases by designing and constructing robust RNA drugs that regulate the genes that control the body's metabolism. The position is available immediately or upon agreement.

Nucleic acid-based therapeutics (NAT) have recently been established as a new class of drugs with extraordinary effects. With the triumph of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, examples of antisense oligonucleotides for treatment of muscular dystrophy, and siRNAs treating common and rare genetic diseases, the therapeutic potential of oligonucleotides is convincing. The programmable nature of RNA drugs provides them with almost unlimited potential as pharmaceuticals. However, many hurdles must still be overcome before RNA modalities reach their potential. To accelerate development of next generation NAT, we propose to establish Center for RNA Therapeutics Towards Metabolic Diseases (RNAMETA).

The overall aim is to conduct innovative basic and preclinical research within the area of NAT and translate our most promising results into viable new therapies. We will focus on solving important main challenges impeding wide implementation of RNA therapeutics in clinical programs namely:

• Enhancing function and efficiency of RNA therapeutics at the molecular level through chemico-biological engineering.
• Targeting specific cells and tissues relevant for treating metabolic diseases
• Improving bioavailability by optimizing the delivery route both outside and inside cells
• Treating metabolic diseases in pre-clinical models

Independent working on an interdisciplinary challenging project at highest scientific levels at ETH Zürich, and in collaboration with scientists at the RNA medicine center at Aarhus University, Denmark.

With the , ETH Zurich has developed a common understanding for a shared work culture. Kindly try to incorporate these six competencies into your recruitment.

• PhD degree or equivalent in the fields of biology, biotechnology, biomedicine, biomedical engineering, biochemistry, gene-based delivery methods, pharmacy, and other related disciplines
• Interest in getting trained in RNA biology and metabolic diseases     
• Interest in interdisciplinary research between ETH Zurich and Aarhus
• Experience with cell biology, nanotechnology, gene therapy, RNA biology is welcome
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team, excellent organizational skills and high reliability
• Excellent track record in scientific working, communication, and publishing
• Outstanding ability to work independently in highly collaborative teams
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English are essential

• Exciting and highly innovative and collaborative research within the framework of RNA therapeutics network
• Supervision by ETH Zurich principal investigators
• Full access to the facilities and expertise at the campuses of ETH Zurich
• Support programme benefits (networking, career development)
• Regular seminars and symposia at ETH Zurich
• Fully funded fellowship for 3 years