Labor für Orale Molekularbiologie, Freiburgstrasse 3, 3010 Bern Medizinische Fakultät Zahnmedizinische Kliniken PhD Position in Cell Biology Laboratory for Oral Molecular Biology – University of Bern, Switzerland 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. Parisi L et al. Stem Cell Res Ther. 2022 13:469. 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. 1 2 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 Application process 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.