Scientific Research Assistant Position

The Department of Biomedicine is a joint effort between the University of Basel and the University Hospitals Basel. It unites basic and clinical scientists to advance our understanding of health and disease and to develop pioneering therapies benefiting the lives of patients in areas of unmet need.

With more than 70 research groups and over 800 employees, the Department is the largest at the University of Basel. We are located in the heart of Basel at several research sites. Be part of our future!

The Bischofberger Lab investigates the cellular and circuit mechanisms underlying learning, memory, and cognitive plasticity in the hippocampus. Environmental enrichment and physical exercise induce complex interactions with environment and conspecifics and are promising interventions for memory deficits and dementia. However, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms are still poorly understood. Most importantly, the effects of environmental complexity on hippocampal coding and synaptic excitation–inhibition balance are unknown.

In a new project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, we are using in‑vivo calcium imaging in freely moving mice (miniscope imaging), together with optogenetics, chemo genetics, and in‑vitro patch‑clamp recordings to understand plasticity of cognition generated by environmental enrichment or, vice versa, by environmental deprivation. We focus on mechanisms underlying object discrimination, spatial navigation, social interactions, and social recognition memory.

Initially, the project focuses on mechanisms involving dendritic inhibition via somatostatin interneurons (Schulz et al. 2018, Nat Commun. 9:3576; Schulz et al. 2019, J Neurosci. 39:5210–5221; Verdiyan et al. 2026, bioRxiv 10.64898/.715605) and will continue investigating the role of various other interneuron subtypes.

Your position

• Participation in experimental neuroscience projects investigating hippocampal information processing and cognitive plasticity
• Performance of in‑vivo calcium imaging experiments in freely moving mice
• Support and execution of stereotaxic surgeries and behavioural experiments
• Involvement in in‑vitro patch‑clamp recordings and data analysis
• Collaboration within an interdisciplinary research team
• Contribution to laboratory organization and scientific discussions

Your profile

• Highly motivated applicant with experience in at least some of the following areas:
• mouse handling
• stereotaxic surgery
• in‑vivo Ca2+-imaging (miniscope or 2‑photon imaging)
• Python‑based data analysis
• PhD in Neuroscience, Biology, Physics or a related discipline
• Strong interest in systems neuroscience and hippocampal circuit function
• Independent, reliable, and team‑oriented working style
• Excellent communication skills in English

We offer you

Application / Contact

Please use the link below to apply and submit the following documents: I. curriculum vitae II. brief summary of past accomplishments (max 2 pages) III. contact details for 3 individuals who can provide recommendation letters upon request. The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled by suitable candidate.