Postdoctoral Position in Brain Barriers Research (Multiple Sclerosis) at University of Bern

A postdoctoral position (80-100%) is available in the research group of Britta Engelhardt at the Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, Switzerland. The project focuses on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying early blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction in multiple sclerosis (MS). Using human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived in vitro models, the successful candidate will investigate BBB dysfunction in persons with MS from a cell-intrinsic perspective, moving beyond the classical view that BBB breakdown is merely a secondary consequence of autoimmune neuroinflammation. The project vision is to test the hypothesis that genetic, epigenetic, and transcriptional alterations intrinsic to brain endothelial cells actively contribute to BBB dysfunction. The research will involve establishing and applying hiPSC-derived in vitro models of the human neurovascular unit (NVU), identifying transcriptional and phenotypic differences between healthy and MS-derived NVU models, discovering and validating candidate genes contributing to BBB dysfunction, and using microfluidic systems to study gene modulation effects on immune cell trafficking across the BBB under physiological flow conditions. Applicants should have a PhD or MD/PhD in life sciences, preferably in vascular biology, neuroscience, or a related field, with in-depth experience in hiPSC-derived brain barrier models and advanced laboratory techniques. The position offers a high-impact, hypothesis-driven project at the forefront of brain barrier and MS research, access to cutting-edge technologies, and a lively international research team. The initial contract is for one year, with the possibility of extension for a second year, and is funded according to University of Bern postdoctoral regulations. The application deadline is January 31, 2026. To apply, submit a single PDF including a motivation letter, CV, publication list, and contact details of at least two referees to Ms. Fabienne Leuenberger at [email protected]. For more information, visit the University of Bern careers page.