Research Assistant Position (all genders) - Advanced Biomarker Detection for Pharmacological Monitoring in the Brain

About BioMed X

BioMed X is an independent research institute with sites in Heidelberg, Germany, New Haven, Connecticut, XSeed Labs in Ridgefield, Connecticut, and a world-wide network of partner locations. We operate at the interface between academia and industry, performing biomedical research and drug discovery & development in the fields of oncology, immunology, neuroscience, platform technologies, and artificial intelligence. All our research projects are sponsored by leading pharmaceutical companies and conducted by early-career scientists recruited from the best schools around the world. The combination of global crowdsourcing with local incubation of the best research talents and ideas allows us to solve the biggest challenges in biomedical research. We stand for free, creative, and curiosity-driven research combined with a solid validation of results, timelines, and deliverables. We serve a large purpose in advancing translational biomedicine by leveraging synergies and fostering cross-pollination across disciplines.

About the Team

The objective of the group Advanced Biomarker Detection for Pharmacological Monitoring in the Brain (BDB), headed by Dr. Khulan Sergelen is to develop an in vivo continuous monitoring biosensor for direct detection of small molecule biomarkers in brain tissue of rodent models for elucidating pharmacodynamic (PD) effect and pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters of drugs against neuropsychiatric diseases. Our team will explore the multifaceted task of continuous monitoring biosensor development, including molecular design and assay development, biocompatible sensor architecture, and optical sensor integration for in vivo monitoring.

The Position

We are looking for highly enthusiastic researchers to broaden our think-tank with their intellectual power and technical excellence. The ideal candidate would have a Master’s degree or equivalent in Electirical Engineering, Physics or related field and a strong background in device engineering, involving design, fabrication and integration of device/hardware components and data collection and interfacing. The RA will design and fabricate optical fiber-based biosensor device for in vivo measurements. The candidate should be a passionate engineer and will work within a multidisciplinary team in the field of neuroscience, biochemistry, physical chemistry and nanotechnology.

Required skills

• Experience in device hardware design
• Experience in hardware component fabrication
• Experience in software development, programming for data collection and interfaces (Python, Matlab, Labview)
• Ability to work independently and in an interdisciplinary team
• Curiousity and willingness to learn new skills
• Excellent communication skills in English

Additional preferred skills

• Experience in optical biosensor technology

Our offer

• International, diverse, and positive work atmosphere, flexible working environment
• Access to training and lecture courses in house as well as in neighboring research institutions on the Life Science Campus in Heidelberg
• Access to a vast network in science and industry.
• Job ticket, sponsored fitness contract, complimentary fresh fruit, soft drinks and chocolate team recognition events, etc.
• The post is offered for a limited term until February 28th, 2026.

The position is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim.

Candidates are requested to submit

• 1-page cover letter explaining the reasons of interest to join our team
• Curriculum Vitae outlining scientific interests, research achievements, a record of publications, future personal goals and extra-scientific passions
• 2 reference letters

The position is available as of May 1st, 2024. Please submit your application to the attention of Dr. Khulan Sergelen before April 15, 2024, via our online Career Space.