Job description
About the Position
The Research Scientist will contribute the development of an optogenetic therapy for peripheral nerve disorders as part of the Campus Biotech Lighthouse Partnership. More specifically, this position will engineer effective AAV-based gene therapies to deliver light-sensitive opsins targeted to different cell populations. The Research Scientist will join a multidisciplinary team including neuroscientists, engineers and computational scientists.
We are looking for an excellent candidate with a high level of motivation, independence and capacity for teamwork.
This position will report directly to the Group Leader.
Key responsibilities
In this position, the Research Scientist will have a broad set of responsibilities including:
• Lead the development and optimization of an optogenetic gene therapy
• Vector engineering: Design and construction of novel AAV vectors
• Evaluate viral construct function in cell-based and animal models
• Work independently and as part of a collaborative team to design, plan and execute experiments
• Maintain knowledge of published developments in research field and recommend alternative strategies
• Plan and organize workload to meet project milestones and timelines
• Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of experimental methods and outcomes in electronic lab notebooks and written reports
• Communicate research updates and outcomes effectively through verbal presentations at lab meetings and conferences
• Contribute to scientific publications as well as to patents
• Support advancing the Wyss Center’s capabilities in gene therapy and optogenetics
Required competence and experience:
• PhD in life sciences, preferably bioengineering, biochemistry or neuroscience
• Minimum of 3+ years of relevant experience in the field of AAV and molecular biology
• Proven expertise in molecular biology techniques, including DNA cloning, plasmid design, sequence analysis, RT-qPCR, DNA purification, and assay development
• Hands-on experience in AAV vector design and engineering
• Proficiency in mammalian cell culture and aseptic techniques
• Familiarity with optogenetics (preferred)
• Exposure to human iPSC-derived cell lines and/or animal models (advantageous)
• Working knowledge of histological methods and fluorescent microscopy (preferred)
• Open minded, proactive, problem-solving attitude with strong sense of ownership, urgency and drive
• Ability to work in an independent manner, while contributing effectively to a collaborative team environment
• Efficient, flexible, and goal-oriented, with strong organizational and time management skills
• Fluency in oral and written English (C1) is a must, French is a plus
Please apply no later than 11.01.2026 with a Resume and a Cover letter
Profile required
We are looking for an excellent candidate with a high level of motivation, independence and capacity for teamwork with a PhD in life sciences, preferably bioengineering, biochemistry or neuroscience, minimum of 3+ years of relevant experience in the field of AAV and molecular biology, with proven expertise in molecular biology techniques, including DNA cloning, plasmid design, sequence analysis, RT-qPCR, DNA purification, and assay development fluent in oral and written English (C1) , French a plus
Company description
The Wyss Center for Bio and Neuroengineering is an independent, not-for-profit neuro venture builder with strong translational R&D roots, committed to transforming the treatment of neurological and mental health disorders. Based at Campus Biotech in Geneva, the Center drives innovation at the intersection of artificial intelligence, bioengineering, and neuroengineering to restore neural functions and deliver precision therapies.
Founded in 2014 with the support of Swiss entrepreneur and philanthropist Hansjörg Wyss, the Wyss Center pioneers a unique model that blends translational R&D with patient-centric therapies, enabling both market and clinical impact. By bridging the gap between scientific discovery and real-world application, the Center de-risks emerging neurotechnologies and accelerates their path to clinical and commercial viability. Through close collaboration with ventures, clinical and academic institutions, industry partners, and access to investor networks, the Wyss Center fosters the development of impactful solutions that improve lives.
On 12/15/2025