Postdoc Position in Glioblastoma Neurobiology and Neuron‑Tumor Connectivity
ETH Zürich is well known for its excellent education, ground‑breaking fundamental research and for implementing its results directly into practice.
Postdoc Position in Glioblastoma Neurobiology and Neuron‑Tumor Connectivity
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher for an exciting collaboration between the Bio Engineering Laboratory (Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel) and the University Hospital Heidelberg / German Cancer Research Center (Heidelberg, Germany).
Project background
Glioblastoma (GB) is the most aggressive primary brain cancer in adults. Recent breakthroughs in cancer neuroscience have revealed that tumor cells integrate into neuronal circuits, forming functional synaptic connections that drive proliferation, invasion, and therapy resistance. This discovery opens new therapeutic avenues: pharmacological strategies targeting neuron‑tumor crosstalk may slow disease progression where conventional treatments fail.
This project combines cutting‑edge technologies to dissect these interactions: high‑density microelectrode arrays (HD‑MEAs) for large‑scale electrophysiology, spatial transcriptomic methods, and human iPSC‑derived neuronal models. Building on our preliminary work using retrograde tracing and live‑cell imaging to map GB‑neuron connectivity, we aim to identify molecular targets for therapeutic intervention.
As a postdoc in this project, you will:
* Establish and characterize human neuron‑tumor co‑cultures using iPSC‑derived neurons and patient‑derived GB models on HD‑MEAs
* Perform longitudinal electrophysiological recordings to track how tumor invasion alters neuronal network activity at single‑cell and population levels
* Apply spatial transcriptomic techniques to map gene expression changes in tumor‑connected versus unconnected neurons
* Integrate functional and transcriptomic datasets to identify molecular mechanisms underlying GB‑neuron interactions
* Contribute to drug screening efforts targeting neuron‑tumor connectivity
Profile
* PhD in neuroscience, biology, bioengineering, or a related field
* Strong background in cell culture, including primary neurons or iPSC‑derived cells
* Experience with electrophysiology (e.g., patch‑clamp or MEA recordings)
* Track record of scientific productivity (publications in peer‑reviewed journals)
* Excellent communication skills and fluency in English
Advantageous:
* Experience with cancer models or glioblastoma research
* Familiarity with transcriptomic methods (RNA‑seq, FISH, spatial transcriptomics)
* Programming skills for data analysis (Python, R, or MATLAB)
We offer
* Funding: Full position (100%) for up to 3 years
* Environment: A collaborative, international team at ETH Zurich's Basel campus with access to state‑of‑the‑art HD‑MEA technology and microscopy facilities
* Collaboration: Close partnership with a leading cancer neuroscience group in Heidelberg
* Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate‑neutral future.
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application by February 28th 2026.
A complete application package includes
* Ashort and specific motivation statement for the advertised position (max. 1 page)
* Complete academic transcripts (BSc, MSc, PhD)
* At least two reference letters (or contact details of at least 2 reference persons).
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications submitted via e‑mail or postal services or incomplete application packages will not be considered.
Further information about the Bio Engineering Laboratory can be found on our website. For more information on the position, please contact exclusively via e‑mail:manuel.schroeter@bsse.ethz.ch
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting‑edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.
Job details
Title
Postdoc Position in Glioblastoma Neurobiology and Neuron‑Tumor Connectivity
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