Postdoctoral Position In Peripheral Neuroscience And Neuro-Immune Interactions

The University of Basel, together with the University Hospitals Basel, operates the Department of Biomedicine (DBM), a vibrant hub where basic and clinical scientists collaborate to advance understanding of health and disease. DBM hosts over 67 research groups and more than 800 employees across six locations in Basel, providing a collaborative and international atmosphere that fosters innovation and excellence.

Within this environment, the Cancer Neuroimmunology group, led by Prof. Karen Dixon, investigates how the nervous system shapes tissue immunity, inflammation, and cancer progression. The lab focuses on peripheral neurons as active regulators of immune responses, tissue homeostasis, and disease, aiming to elucidate the mechanisms by which peripheral neural circuits detect changes in tissue state and instruct immune cell function.

The successful postdoctoral researcher will lead an interdisciplinary project at the interface of peripheral neuroscience, immunology, and cancer. The project will examine how peripheral neural signals regulate immune cell function within tissues and how neuro‑immune communication contributes to inflammatory or tumour‑associated disease states. Approaches include neuronal tracing, in vivo disease models, genetic and viral manipulation of neuronal populations, advanced imaging, flow cytometry, single‑cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, and functional neuro‑immune assays.

Applicants should hold a PhD in neuroscience, neuroimmunology, or a closely related discipline. A strong interest in peripheral neuroscience, neuro‑immune communication, and disease biology is essential. Candidates must have experience with in vivo models and/or complex experimental systems, a track record of scientific productivity appropriate to their career stage, and the ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team. Strong communication, organizational, and problem‑solving skills, together with enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research, are required.

The position is fully funded and offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with access to cutting‑edge technologies in neuronal tracing, in vivo models, imaging, flow cytometry, single‑cell genomics, and spatial transcriptomics. The successful candidate will receive close mentorship from Prof. Dixon, support for developing scientific independence, assistance with fellowship applications, and guidance for future career progression. Opportunities exist to collaborate across the Basel neuroscience, immunology, and cancer research communities, and to participate in a supportive, ambitious, and interdisciplinary lab environment.

To apply, candidates must submit a single PDF containing: (1) a cover letter describing research interests, relevant expertise, and motivation; (2) a CV including publications; (3) contact details for two to three references; and (4) a brief statement of future research interests. Applications should be sent via the link provided on the advertisement (https://academicpositions.com/ad/university-of-basel/2026/postdoctoral-position…) before the deadline of 9 July 2026, 21:59 UTC. Further details are available on the University of Basel website.