APPLICATION CLOSING DATE: February 5th 2025 Human Technopole (HT) is an interdisciplinary research institute in Milan (Italy) created and supported by the Italian government to develop innovative strategies promoting human health. HT adopts a multidisciplinary and integrated approach combining genomics, computational and structural biology, neuroscience, and data and decision sciences. About the lab: The Harschnitz Group studies the molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie susceptibility to viral and autoimmune disease of the human nervous system. Its interests range from developmental neurobiology, human stem cell biology, and basic virology. We develop and use cutting-edge human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) technology to establish human in vitro disease models to study neuroinflammation in human, disease-relevant cells. The group takes a multidisciplinary approach, combining our state-of-the-art human stem cell models with high-content chemical or genetic screens, single-cell analyses, and advanced high-resolution imaging technology to investigate host-virus interactions in the human brain. The Harschnitz lab at Human Technopole is searching for two postdoctoral researchers to contribute to the new FIS Starting Grant: Grant n. FIS-2023-03708 CUP B53C24009410001 Project "Dissecting HSV-1 Latency and Reactivation using Trigeminal Organoids - 3D HSV" in the framework of the FONDO ITALIANO PER LA SCIENZA 2022-2023. The successful candidates will be part of an interdisciplinary team that will investigate the host-virus interplay in the context of viral latency. Specifically, the candidates will develop novel hPSC-based culture systems and organoid models combined with CRISPR screens to identify the molecular mechanisms that regulate Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) latency within human trigeminal ganglion neurons. We are looking for highly motivated, independent, and creative stem cell biologists and virologists to study the mechanisms underlying HSV-1 latency and reactivation in human stem cell-based models. The postdoctoral fellows will use a combination of state-of-the-art hPSC technology in combination with single-cell and spatial genomics, high-resolution imaging, and CRISPR screens. They will be part of a multidisciplinary and international environment and will be highly supported in developing their scientific career and learn new skills. Key responsibilities: Designing and performing experiments in the fields of stem cell biology and virology. Performing whole-genome CRISPR/Cas genetic screens. Applying different bulk, single-cell, and spatial transcriptomic technologies. Conceiving and developing new ideas, approaches, and/or original technologies. Generating and recording data for publication. Drafting manuscripts and figures deriving from their own results. Interacting closely with other laboratory members and collaborators. Presenting scientific results at relevant international meetings. Job requirements Mandatory requirements: PhD in a relevant subject area (stem cell biology, virology, neuroscience, or similar). Strong molecular biology skills (e.g., cloning, Western blot, RTq-PCR). Extensive experience in mammalian cell culture. Fluency in English - HT is an international research institute. Preferred skills: Solid expertise in genome editing and genetic screens. Experience in immunocytochemistry and microscopy. Organizational and social skills: Proven independent working style, problem-solving, and strong passion for science. Ability and interest to learn or develop new methodologies. Willingness and ability to work in an open, transparent, and highly collaborative team. Excellent communication skills. Ability to work in an inclusive environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity. Any questions concerning the role and/or queries regarding the relevant terms and conditions should be addressed to recruitmentfht.org (this email address should not be used to send applications). Application Instructions: Please apply online by sending: a CV in English. a detailed motivation letter (up to 3 pages) in English clearly stating your motivation and fit. names and contact information of 2 referees. WHY HUMAN TECHNOPOLE HT seeks scientific excellence. We recruit the best scientific talents through international, open calls. Our working environment is international, friendly, and inclusive. Our scientists work together across disciplines on research topics of biomedical relevance, leveraging synergies between their diverse skill sets and methodological approaches. We believe that highly diverse teams yield the best and most innovative results. We engage in outward-facing scientific activities aimed at benefiting the national and international research community. Training is also at the heart of our activity, with initiatives and opportunities for our staff, including scientific courses, conferences, and workshops. MAIN BENEFITS: Welfare plans. Canteen service. Work-life balance provisions. Italian language training for foreigners. Parental leave up to 1 year and other support for new parents. Counselling. Flexible working hours. Support for relocation. Researchers coming to Italy for the first time, or returning after residing abroad, benefit from very attractive income tax benefits. Special consideration will be given to candidates who are part of the protected categories list, according to L. 68/99. Number of positions offered: 2 Contract offered: CCNL Chimico Farmaceutico, Fixed-term 3 years. Employee level. Starting date: MARCH 2025 Salary: € 40K The position is based in Milan. J-18808-Ljbffr