Technician - Mouse Surgery & Neuroscience

The company seeks a mid-level technician to support its neuroscience program through mouse surgery, colony management, and primary neuron culture work at its Lausanne campus.

This position contributes to an expanding neuroscience initiative by providing technical support for in vivo and ex vivo studies. The role focuses on executing precise surgical procedures, maintaining animal colonies, and preparing neuronal cultures within a molecular biology and engineering research setting.

Responsibilities

• Manage mouse breeding programs, including genotyping, weaning, and maintaining records in line with institutional and national animal welfare standards.
• Conduct stereotaxic procedures such as viral injections, cannula placements, and cranial window preparations under senior supervision and according to approved protocols.
• Isolate and culture primary neurons from brain regions like the cortex and hippocampus, handling dissection, dissociation, plating, and daily upkeep.
• Oversee laboratory logistics, including inventory control, reagent preparation, autoclaving, and waste disposal.
• Uphold biosafety and animal care regulations while mentoring new team members on proper handling and surgical techniques.
• Keep surgical tools and lab equipment properly maintained, scheduling servicing and calibration as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in neuroscience, biology, bioengineering, or a closely related life science discipline.
• Minimum of two years of practical experience handling rodents and performing in vivo mouse procedures in a research setting.
• Proven background in isolating and culturing primary neurons, with preference for cortical and hippocampal sources.
• Demonstrated proficiency in stereotaxic surgery or similar neurosurgical methods.
• Possession of a valid Swiss or European animal experimentation license.
• Fluent command of both English and French.

Nice to have

• Prior experience managing viral vectors like AAV or lentivirus for in vivo or in vitro use.
• Knowledge of fundamental histology techniques, including perfusion, sectioning, and immunostaining.
• Familiarity with fluorescence microscopy or calcium imaging applications.

What the company offers

• A challenging role within a globally top-ranked research university.
• An inclusive and collaborative atmosphere bridging molecular biology, neuroscience, and engineering.
• Access to professional growth through language and technical training programs.
• Supportive family policies and adaptable scheduling to promote work-life balance.

About the company

EPFL stands as one of Europe's most vibrant and international research universities, consistently placed among the world's leading institutions. With a community of over 16,000 students and staff from more than 120 countries, it provides an inspiring setting that promotes excellence in education, research, and innovation.

• A dynamic, diverse, and collaborative working environment at the intersection of molecular biology, neuroscience, and engineering.
• Opportunities for professional development, including language and technical training courses.
• Family-friendly policies and flexible work arrangements supporting work–life balance.