IOB is a research institute combining basic and clinical research. Its mission is to drive innovations in understanding vision and its diseases and develop new therapies for vision loss. It is a place where your expertise will be valued, your abilities challenged, and your knowledge expanded. We are seeking qualified and highly motivated Research Assistant to support the Single-cell Genomics Platform.

Your position

• Isolate and prepare single cells from various eye tissues and cultures; perform advanced NGS library preparations, including RNA-seq, Epi Multiome, and CITE-seq using 10x Genomics platforms.
• Prepare sequencing libraries and operate sequencing instruments such as Illumina and ONT (Oxford Nanopore Technologies).
• Develop and implement innovative plate-based (e.g., FLASH-seq) and emulsion-based protocols for specialised NGS applications in collaboration with IOB researchers.
• Contribute to the establishment, optimisation, and implementation of Spatial Transcriptomics methodologies.
• Maintain and ensure the quality and consistency of existing NGS protocols.
• Provide technical assistance and expert guidance to IOB researchers for their projects.

Your profile

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field, with substantial hands-on experience in NGS workflows.
• Proven work experience in cell biology is advantageous.
• Demonstrated expertise in executing NGS protocols is essential.
• Familiarity with liquid handling robotic platforms (e.g., Tecan) and automated dispensers (e.g., I.DOT) is desirable; training will be provided if required.
• Proven ability to independently plan, execute, and troubleshoot NGS experiments.
• Strong multitasking skills with the ability to manage and prioritise multiple parallel tasks effectively.
• Willingness to acquire and apply new technical skills on cutting-edge instruments as needed.
• Passion for developing, refining, and optimising new protocols and experimental techniques.
• Highly organised, with exceptional attention to detail.
• Fluency in oral and written English is required.

We offer you

• Competitive salary among the academic world.
• Five weeks of vacation for all employees, with increasing amount of vacation days by age.
• Paid Maternity-leave up to 16 weeks plus the opportunity to extend it through unpaid leave.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development, including training and education support.
• Family Friendly: we offer childcare subsidy, a family room.
• The chance to be part of a groundbreaking research institute making a real impact in the field of medical science.
• Additional discounts and benefits: e.g. cafeteria, access to the Uni Sport offerings at University Basel, and more.