Lab Technician position in the Functional Cancer Genomics Lab - Prof. Jean-Philippe Theurillat

The Institute of Oncology Research (IOR)

The IOR, affiliated with the Università della Svizzera italiana (USI), is located in a brand-new, high-tech research building that hosts more than 20 different research groups. It offers state-of-the-art facilities together with the neighboring Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB). It offers a thriving environment with leading edge research projects and multiple occasions of interaction with world leaders in the fields of cancer, immunology, and DNA biology (see Ph.D. lecture series at PhD Program).

The Functional Cancer Genomics Lab, led by Prof. Jean-Philippe Theurillat investigates the molecular mechanisms of prostate cancer progression and therapeutic resistance. The group combines functional genomics, translational pathology, and cutting-edge experimental models to drive discoveries from bench to bedside. A full list of our publications is available on PubMed.

Your tasks

As a lab technician, you will play a central role in supporting the experimental work of the group. Your responsibilities will include:

• Maintaining and managing our patient-derived xenograft (PDX) in vivo models
• Performing in vivo experiments, including drug treatments, to identify novel therapeutic opportunities for prostate cancer patients
• Conducting standard mammalian cell culture
• Establishing and maintaining next-generation 3D organoid ex vivo models

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in biology, biomedicine, laboratory technology, or a closely related field
• We particularly encourage applications from young, highly motivated lab technicians
• Experience with cell culture and mouse models is an advantage, but not a requirement
• LTK1 certification preferred but not required
• Pro-active, collaborative attitude and a genuine passion for hands-on, leading-edge research
• Strong communication skills (English is mandatory) and team player spirit

What we offer

• A competitive salary
• The opportunity to learn and grow in a stimulating, international research environment
• Access to state-of-the-art core facilities (e.g., SPF-mouse facility with in vivo imaging, genomics, microscopy, histology, flow cytometry, and more)
• Hands-on training at the interface of cancer biology and in vivo/ex vivo experimental models
• A dynamic, supportive, and international team culture
• Strong mentoring with an emphasis on personal development

The Application

Applications must contain:

• A short motivation letter describing your background and interest in the position
• A detailed CV
• Contact details of two references if possible

Applications must be submitted online by filling out the form accessible through the following link: CANDIDATES. You will also need to upload the documents listed above.

For scientific and position-related questions, please contact: [email protected]

For administrative questions, please contact [email protected]

Applications that do not meet the requirements, sent to different contacts, in other formats, or after the deadline will not be considered.

Deadline: August 31st, 2026

Starting date: Negotiable.

More information about the IOR is available at www.ior.usi.ch and https://ior.usi.ch/en/group/functional-cancer-genomics

IOR strives to be an equal opportunity and family-friendly employer. As an institution that values diversity, IOR particularly encourages applications from women and all individuals from underrepresented groups.

Bellinzona, 24.07.2026