Post-Doctoral Research Fellow - Experimental Neuropathology Unit

Post-Doctoral Research Fellow – Experimental Neuropathology Unit

Department: Biomedical Sciences
Location: Humanitas University, Rozzano (MI), Italy
Contract Type: Fixed-term contract, 12 months renewable

Position Summary

Humanitas University is seeking a highly motivated Post-Doctoral Research Fellow with a background in Biology or Biotechnology to support research activities within the Experimental Neuropathology Unit. The selected candidate will contribute to the project:

Title: Dissecting microglia vulnerability to stress response in Multiple Sclerosis through human iPSC modelling
Objective: Investigate molecular mechanisms underlying microglial vulnerability to cellular senescence in Multiple Sclerosis (MS), using human iPSC-derived models and advanced gene editing techniques.

Research Project Overview

The MiST-MS project shifts focus from lymphocyte-driven inflammation to glial cell responses, particularly microglial senescence, as key drivers of chronic inflammation and disability in MS. The project integrates:

• hiPSC-derived microglia models
• Genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 screenings
• Single-cell CRISPR-seq and multi-omics integration
• Organoid-based brain aging models

This innovative pipeline aims to identify therapeutic targets to halt MS progression by rejuvenating microglial function.

Key Responsibilities

• Culturing human iPSCs, neural precursor cells, and brain organoids
• Performing CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing
• Differentiation of hiPSCs into microglia and other neural cell types
• Data analysis and interpretation in collaboration with computational teams

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Biology, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or related fields
• Proven experience in:
• hiPSC culture and differentiation
• CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing
• Fluent written and spoken English
• Strong scientific and professional track record

Preferred Skills

• Experience with brain organoid models
• Familiarity with single-cell sequencing and multi-omics data
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team

Required documents for your application: 

• Cover letter explaining why you want to join the team
• Update CV
• Contact information of three referees

On the basis of the profiles received and in the terms indicated by this notice, Humanitas will activate the selection process by inviting suitable candidates to participate in selection interviews, after verification of the cv and qualifications, which will be held in presence or in telematic mode.

The notice is addressed to candidates in compliance with Dlgs 198/2006 and Dlgs 215/2003 and 216/2003. Interested persons are invited to read the privacy notice ex art. 13 and 14 of EU Reg. 2016/679.