University of Zurich
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PhD Position in Pediatric Lyme Neuroborreliosis Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatment University of Zurich in Switzerland
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Immunology
Funding
Available
Country
Switzerland
University
University of Zurich
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About this position
The University of Zurich is offering a PhD position in the Pediatric Infectious Disease Research Zurich group within the Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology at the University Children's Hospital Zurich. The project focuses on Lyme neuroborreliosis (LNB) in children, a challenging manifestation of Lyme disease caused by Borrelia burgdorferi.
The doctoral researcher will work within the prospective BRILLIANT study, which investigates Lyme disease in children aged 0–17 years. The research aims to improve the diagnosis of pediatric LNB by identifying new microbiological and immunological markers of infection and by clarifying why current diagnostic procedures miss some cases.
The project combines clinical, microbiological and immunological research. Activities include managing patient recruitment and follow-up, processing and storing clinical samples, extracting hospital-record data, and maintaining the REDCap study database. Laboratory work will involve optimization of Borrelia culture and quantitative PCR procedures, evaluation of diagnostic approaches, and analysis of immune responses using flow cytometry, bead-based cytokine and chemokine assays, and potentially single-cell RNA sequencing.
The researcher will also perform whole-genome sequencing of clinical Borrelia isolates to investigate genotypes and virulence factors associated with Lyme disease and Lyme neuroborreliosis phenotypes. The position includes scientific writing, presentations at meetings and conferences, and possible supervision of Master's students.
The Pediatric Infectious Disease Research Zurich group is a growing international team closely connected with clinical services, clinical trials and epidemiological studies. The research environment includes physicians, study managers and basic researchers, direct postdoctoral supervision, shared facilities for flow cytometry, microscopy and biobanking, and opportunities for participation in group meetings, journal clubs, courses and workshops.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must hold a Master's degree (MSc) in medicine, biology, immunology, or a related field. Strong interest in clinical research is required; previous clinical research experience is advantageous. Applicants should have research interests in immunology, microbiology and/or infectious diseases, a good understanding of statistics, and preferably experience with R. High motivation, independence, and good written and oral communication skills are required, along with good knowledge of German and English.
How to apply
Submit a CV, Master's degree certificate, transcript, and motivation letter through the UZH application portal. The position starts in February 2027 or upon agreement and is temporary for three years.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.