PhD student position in cellular ion channel research, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (DPT) of the University of Lausanne

 A Ph.D. student position is available at the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology (DPT) of the University of Lausanne to study the function and regulation of acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs). ASICs are neuronal ion channels involved in pain sensation, fear behavior, and neurodegeneration after ischemia (for review see Wemmie JA et al., Nat Rev Neurosci 14: 461-471, 2013; Kellenberger S and Schild L, Pharmacol Rev 67: 1-35, 2015). We are a relatively small, dynamic research team, studying ion channel function from different angles. In our work we aim at understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying ASIC activation. In the particular project for which the PhD student is hired, she/he will investigate activation and modulatory mechanisms of ASICs in the cellular context. In this work, the PhD student will use approaches of electrophysiology, cell biology and biochemistry to study ASICs in cellular expression systems and in neurons. We are well integrated in a department whose main research interest is cellular signaling. This department (the DPT), with 10 research teams, offers a stimulating and competitive research environment in modern biology with multidisciplinary expertise.