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Presentation

The Kathe Lab in the Department of Fundamental Neurosciences at UNIL is recruiting for a fully funded postdoctoral position in systems neuroscience, with a focus on neuro-motor disorders and multi-omics

Job information

Expected start date in position: 01.01.2027 / to be agreed

Contract length: 1 year, renewable

Activity rate: 100%

Workplace: University of Lausanne, Rue du Bugnon 9, 1005 Lausanne

Your responsibilities

Our research uses a molecular systems neurobiology approach to investigate the critical role that distinct spinal cord neuronal populations play in motor function and to understand how these neuronal populations and their microenviroments are altered in pathological conditions such as spinal cord injury and cerebral palsy. We study the aberrant neuronal patterning in the spinal cord using transcriptomic and proteomic approaches linking molecular and cellular changes to behavioural and neurophysiological outcomes. Our overarching goal is to uncover disorder-underlying mechanisms in the spinal cord, and translate this knowldege into the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

We are looking for a candidate with experience in rodent models of neurological disorders, as well as advanced multi-omics approaches and bioinformatics. More specifically, the candidate will use single-nucleus sequencing to profile spinal cord alterations in a rat model of cerebral palsy and, based on these findings, develop and employ a gene therapy in combination with rehabilitation. They will join a multidisciplinary team of neuroscientists, engineers, and computational scientists. Most of the candidate's time will be dedicated to research, but there will also be opportunities to contribute to teaching activities, supervise PhD and Master's projects, and participate in career development activities.

Your qualifications

A PhD degree in life sciences, preferably in neuroscience (required)

strong interest / knowledge in spinal cord research (required)

in vivo skills relevant to rodent models including surgical (required), behaviour (required), electrophysiological skills (desired), familiarity with rehabilitation techniques (desired)

bioinformatic skills including single-cell RNA sequencing, proteomic and spatial transcriptomics analysis (strongly advantageous / required)

working knowledge of histological methods and fluorescent microscopy (desired)

proficiency in mammalian cell culture (desired)

Open minded, proactive, problem-solving attitude with strong sense of ownership, urgency and drive

Efficient, flexible, and goal-oriented, with strong organizational and time management skills

Fluency in oral and written English (C1) is a must, French is a plus

Scientific writing and interpersonal skills

capability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a interdisciplinary team

Interdisciplinary candidates with experience in both in vivo research and bioinformatics are strongly encouraged to apply

What the position offers you

You will be supervised by Prof. Claudia Kathe, in a diverse, dynamic, and international research environment. The working language is English.

The Department of Fundamental Neurosciences encompasses 13 research labs investigating diverse fields related to functional genomics and offers state-of-the-art experimental facilities. Beyond the training in the host laboratory, numerous possibilities exist at UNIL for further professional education and career development.

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Contact for further information

Informal requests for further information can be made by email to:

claudia.kathe@unil.ch

Your application

To apply, you must upload as a single PDF document:

A CV, including the names of 3 referees
A motivation letter in English describing your past research experience and your scientific interests, and how they are a good match for the host laboratory (no longer than 2 pages)

Deadline: 15.09.2026

Only applications through the University of Lausanne job portal will be taken into account.

Additional information

UNIL is committed to:

equality, diversity and inclusion within its community;
ensuring an open and respectful environment that is conducive to personal development;
offering working conditions that facilitate work-life balance;
supporting early career researchers.

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