Postdoc in Cancer Neuroscience

Mission

Our laboratory develops and applies advanced molecular and optical technologies to study mechanisms of cell surface signaling, cancer neuroscience, and protein engineering, integrating molecular biology, cell biology, and systems neuroscience approaches. To support our expanding in vivo and ex vivo neuroscience program, we are seeking a motivated and experienced technician to assist with mouse work, surgical procedures, and primary neuron culture.

Main duties and responsibilities

The Kim Laboratory at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) Upkim is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to investigate how neuronal activity and the physical tumor microenvironment cooperate to drive brain cancer progression.

The project

Brain tumors do not grow in isolation. Glioma cells form functional connections with neural circuits, respond to activity-dependent signals from neurons, and actively remodel the tumor microenvironment surrounding them. Our recent work identified a signaling pathway in which neuron-derived neuroligin-3 engages CSPG4, increases membrane tension, and activates the mechanosensitive ion channel PIEZO1, thereby promoting glioma proliferation. The successful candidate will build on this work to define the mechanochemical dialogue between the nervous system and cancer. The project will investigate how tissue stiffness, extracellular matrix composition, mechanosensitive signaling proteins regulate neuron–glioma interaction and tumor proliferation. The broader goal is to identify therapeutic vulnerabilities that arise from the interaction of tumor cells with their neuronal and physical microenvironment.

Qualifications

We welcome applicants with a PhD in neuroscience, cancer biology, cell biology, molecular biology, bioengineering, or a related field, together with excellent written and spoken English skills. We are seeking a highly motivated, intellectually curious, and collaborative candidate with strong expertise in whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology. Experience with stereotactic surgery, intracranial tumor models, acute brain-slice recordings, calcium imaging, and cancer research would also be particularly valuable. Applicants should also demonstrate a strong research track record, including at least one first-author publication in a well-regarded peer-reviewed journal.

We offer

We offer a fully funded postdoctoral position for at least three years within a highly interdisciplinary project supported by substantial preliminary data. The successful candidate will have opportunities to develop an independent research direction, access state-of-the-art EPFL facilities and international collaborations, and receive close mentorship in experimental design, manuscript preparation, fellowship applications, and career development, all within a vibrant scientific environment in Lausanne on Lake Geneva.

Informations

Contract Start Date : 01.10.2026 or flexible

Activity Rate : 100%

Contract Type: CDD

Duration: 1 year renewable

Reference: 2354

Only application submitted via the online platform will be considered.

For additional information please contact Dr. Yoon Kim (yoon.kim@epfl.ch)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. The preferred starting date is flexible.