PhD Position in Cell Biology - Laboratory for Oral Molecular Biology

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Start Date Date 01.06.2026
or by arrangement
Employment Relationship 100%, fixed-term
Institution / Workplace Klinik für Kieferorthopädie Bern
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Who we are

The Laboratory for Oral Molecular Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Bern, focuses on patient-oriented research in cleft lip and palate (CLP). Our goal is to develop innovative and less invasive strategies for the repair of alveolar bone defects.
More information: https://www.ortho.zmk.unibe.ch/forschung/index_ger.html

Project description

We have recently demonstrated that fibroblasts derived from cleft lip tissue possess osteogenic differentiation potential1, offering promising opportunities for clinical applications in alveolar cleft repair. However, this capacity is limited by the intrinsic heterogeneity of fibroblast populations2.
This project aims to identify and characterize fibroblast subpopulations within lip tissue, assess their specific osteogenic capacities, and elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying their differentiation potential. The project will use CLP patient-derived fibroblasts3 and apply advance cellular and molecular approaches, including CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing and single-cell RNA sequencing.

1 Parisi L et al. Stem Cell Res Ther. 2022 13:469.
2 Parisi L et al. J Dent Res. 2025 104(9):1033-1041.
3 Parisi L et al. Front Cell Dev Biol. 2021 10;9:682944.

Your profile

  • Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related field
  • Strong interest in patient-oriented research, particularly in primary cell culture, bone biology, and OMICS approaches
  • Ability to work independently, while contributing to a collaborative team environment
  • Good communication skills in English
  • Experience with cell culture and molecular biology techniques is advantageous but not required


We offer
  • A dynamic, collaborative, and supportive research environment
  • Access to state-of-the art infrastructure and core facilities
  • Participation in seminars, journal clubs, and interdisciplinary training opportunities
  • Enrollment in the Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences
  • Position funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF)
  • Opportunity to contribute to research with direct clinical relevance for CLP patients
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Your Benefits

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Healthy corporate culture and good working atmosphere
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International reputation
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Strong research infrastructure and international network
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Central location in the heart of Bern
Other benefits

Your Benefits

  • Healthy corporate culture and good working atmosphere
  • International reputation
  • Strong research infrastructure and international network
  • Central location in the heart of Bern

Working at the University of Bern

The University of Bern not only offers exciting tasks but also an environment that actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Discover what makes us stand out as an employer and how you can grow with us.
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Application and Contact

Please submit a SINGLE PDF including:
  • Motivation letter
  • Curriculum vitae (CV)
  • Copy of MSc diploma
  • Contact details for at least two referees
Send your application to: martin.degen@unibe.ch
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Questions about the position?

martin.degen@unibe.ch

Questions about the application?

martin.degen@unibe.ch

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