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EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, is one of the most dynamic university campuses in Europe and ranks among the top 20 universities worldwide. The EPFL employs more than 6,500 people supporting the three main missions of the institutions: education, research and innovation. The EPFL campus offers an exceptional working environment at the heart of a community of more than 18,500 people, including over 14,000 students and 4,000 researchers from more than 120 different countries.

Postdoctoral Researcher in the CHEMINA Lab - Aptamer SELEX

Postdoctoral Researcher in the Laboratory of Chemical Nanotechnology (Prof. Nako Nakatsuka)

We seek an outstanding candidate to be part of a unique and independently funded research project at the cutting edge of biosensing, diagnostics, and nanotechnology.

Research project: Structure-Switching Aptamer SELEX Platform

Project Overview: This project aims to establish a robust and streamlined structure-switching aptamer SELEX pipeline for targeting small-molecule analytes.

The objective is to isolate and validate at least two novel aptamer sequences with strong selectivity and structure-switching capabilities.

Your mission: 

  • Lead the design and implementation of a complete structure-switching aptamer SELEX workflow.
  • Optimize and operate selection instrumentation, amplification protocols, and screening processes.
  • Work closely with team members to integrate aptamers into biosensing platforms.

Main duties and responsibilities

  • Conduct high-impact, independent research and disseminate findings through high-impact publications and conferences.
  • Drive the execution of project milestones and maintain close coordination with internal and external collaborators.
  • Supervise and mentor Master’s and PhD students in the CHEMINA Lab.
  • Contribute actively to the development, strategy, and management of the lab as a pro-active senior team member.

Profile

  • PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical biology, bioengineering, or a related field
  • Demonstrated hands-on experience in with aptamer SELEX, preferably involving small-molecule targets and structure-switching designs.
  • Proven ability to set up and optimize SELEX instrumentation and workflows.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a drive for technology development.
  • Prior experience managing research projects and mentoring students.
  • A proven track record of excellence in research (publications or industry experience).
  • Outstanding communication skills and a team-oriented, collaborative mindset.
  • A high degree of motivation, responsibility, and scientific curiosity.
  • Fluency in English (spoken and written).

We offer

  • Innovative Research Team: Join a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and international research group led by a young faculty invested in the growth of every member.
  • Collaborative Environment: Work at the intersection of chemistry, engineering, and neuroscience with leading academic and industrial partners.
  • World-Class Facilities: Conduct your research at the Campus Biotech in Geneva with access to top-tier cutting-edge platforms at one of the most dynamic scientific institutions in Europe.
  • Professional Development: Engage in mentorship, leadership, and teaching opportunities with a highly supportive and collaborative research team that values open science and communication.
  • Build an Excellent Network: Benefit from regular interactions with internationally renowned experts and a driven team of postdoctoral researchers and PhD students
  • Competitive salary and excellent working conditions (https://www.epfl.ch/campus/services/human-resources/en/basic-starting-salary-of-doctoral-assistants-and-postdocs/)

Informations

Only applications submitted through the online platform are considered. You are asked to supply:

  • A brief cover letter (pdf, up to 2 pages).

And in one PDF:

  • A CV with a publication list.
  • A research statement (pdf, up to 3 pages).
  • Contact details for 3 referees.

 

Contract Start Date : 09/15/2025 

Activity Rate : 100.00 

Contract Type: CDD

Duration: 1 year, renewable 

Reference: 1680 










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