Institute of Anatomy

Postdoctoral Position in Skin Morphogenesis 100 %

Start of employment June 1, 2026, or as mutually agreed upon, temporary

The postdoctoral fellow will conduct her/his research in the laboratory of Prof. Lukas Sommer at the Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich. The group is part of the SKINTEGRITY.CH consortium and is engaged in several interdisciplinary projects in the fields of stem cells in development, tissue repair and regeneration, and tumorigenesis.
We offer varied work in an inspiring, multidisciplinary, and supportive environment within a vibrant and international research team.
Our group has access to a comprehensive range of facilities and technology platforms established on the campus and is, among others, closely collaborating with clinician scientists at the University Hospital Zurich.
The position is available for at least 3 years.

Your responsibilities

Peripheral glia are crucial yet overlooked regulators of skin biology. Following our discovery that de-differentiated glia drive wound healing in adult skin (Cell Stem Cell, 2026), we now explore their role in skin morphogenesis. In a project recently funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, we propose that glial cells actively shape the skin microenvironment by coordinating interactions across diverse cell types. Combining single-cell, spatial, and functional approaches, we will map glial influences during skin development. By spanning the transition from scarless to scarring repair, this work aims to uncover glia-driven mechanisms that could be leveraged to improve regeneration in adult skin.

Your profile

Candidates should hold a PhD, MD-PhD, or equivalent degree in the life sciences and have a demonstrated record of innovative scientific accomplishments, as evidenced for instance by first-author publications in major journals (published or accepted). Experience with cell culture, genetic mouse models, functional genomics, and high-dimensional data analysis is highly desirable, as is a background in embryology and/or skin biology. We seek individuals with a strong interest in interdisciplinary research and the ability to independently develop and drive a research project.

Information on your application

Applications containing the candidate's curriculum vitae, list of publications, short letter of motivation and the names and e-mail addresses of three potential references should be sent in a single PDF document via the "APPLY NOW" button.

What we offer

Our employees benefit from a wide range of attractive offers. Find out more: https://www.uzh.ch/de/explore/work.html.

What we offer

Work-Life Balance
  • Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
  • Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH


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Learning and Development
  • Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
  • Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

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Food
  • Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
  • Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

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Healthcare
  • Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
  • Free seasonal flu vaccinations
  • Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

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Discounts
  • Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
  • Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
  • Special conditions on hotel reservations

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Conditions of Employment
  • Policies of the UZH
  • Most UZH staff are employed according to public law


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International Services
  • Support for people from outside Switzerland

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Campuses
  • Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
  • Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

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Further information

Questions about the job

Prof. Lukas Sommer Head of Institute
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Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
More → https://www.uzh.ch/en/explore/work.html

Please apply via our job portal www.jobs.uzh.ch.

Working at UZH

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer! More
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