PhD Position – Autophagy & Retinal Degeneration | University

PhD Position – Autophagy & Retinal Degeneration | University of Fribourg

University: University of Fribourg, Switzerland

Position Available: Fully Funded PhD Position – Autophagy and Retinal Degeneration

Research Area: Autophagy | Retinal Biology | Age-Related Macular Degeneration | Neurodegeneration | Stem Cell Biology | iPSC Models | Molecular & Cellular Biology

The University of Fribourg, Switzerland
, in the laboratory of Prof. Patricia Boya
, is offering a fully funded PhD position within the PANDORA Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network
.

The project will investigate the relationship between autophagy and complement dysregulation in models of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), using stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and murine retina models. The research will focus particularly on selective autophagy pathways such as mitophagy and lysophagy
.

The project investigates mechanisms underlying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) dysfunction
, altered complement activity, and impaired cellular quality-control pathways associated with neurodegenerative disease.

Study the relationship between autophagy pathways and complement system dysregulation in experimental models of AMD.

Use induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based models and stem cell-derived RPE to investigate disease mechanisms.

Focus on selective autophagy processes including:

• Lysophagy
• Cellular quality control
• Autophagy-related disease mechanisms

Apply advanced molecular and cellular biology approaches to investigate mechanisms involved in retinal degeneration.

Use advanced imaging and microscopy approaches to characterize cellular and molecular changes associated with disease.

Work with murine models to investigate retinal degeneration and contribute to experiments involving laboratory animals under applicable ethical and regulatory requirements.

Investigate disease mechanisms and identify potential therapeutic targets relevant to AMD and retinal degeneration.

Applicants should have:

• A Master’s degree or equivalent in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Neuroscience, or a related discipline.
• Strong interest in cell biology, neuronal and glial biology, autophagy, retinal biology, and/or neurodegeneration
  .
• Experience in cell culture
  .
• Previous experience with iPSC culture and differentiation is an advantage but is not essential.
• Knowledge or experience in molecular biology, microscopy, or related experimental techniques is desirable.
• Willingness to work with murine models and laboratory animals
  .
• Strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Excellent scientific communication skills.
• Excellent proficiency in English
  .
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.

Previous experience with iPSC culture, differentiation, microscopy, molecular biology, animal experimentation, autophagy, retinal biology, or neurodegeneration research will be beneficial.

• Fully funded PhD research opportunity at the University of Fribourg.
• Training in advanced molecular, cellular, imaging, and stem-cell-based approaches
  .
• Exposure to iPSC-based research and retinal disease models
  .
• Experience in studying autophagy, mitophagy, and lysophagy
  .
• Training involving laboratory animal experimentation in accordance with applicable regulations.
• Opportunities for scientific collaborations and conference participation
  .
• A tailored career development plan and professional development opportunities.
• Experience with in an international and interdisciplinary MSCA Doctoral Network
  .
• Opportunity to contribute to research addressing mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies for age-relat…