Post-Doctoral Research Position 80%-100%

The Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology (SCAHT) at the University of Basel is seeking a highly motivated Scientific Coordinator to lead and advance an International STakeholder NETwork (ISTNET) initiative for Developmental and Reproductive Toxicity (DART) testing. This project aims to further develop a research community that is currently establishing a regulatory roadmap for DART testing using animal-free, human-relevant New Approach Methodologies (NAMs). This includes NAM data analyses, strategic publications (e.g. on Adverse Outcome Pathway or other concepts for DART evaluation), networking, coordination and grant writing. Building on the success of the first ISTNET-DART stakeholder workshop that took place in autumn 2024 with over 60 participants from 12 countries, your mission will be to drive global collaboration between regulators, academia, and industry toward faster, more ethical, and more predictive chemical safety testing strategies. The position is available for two years and sponsored by the Grantham Foundation.

• Coordinate and grow the international DART stakeholder network across science, industry, and regulatory authorities.
• Publish key initiatives, scientific updates, strategies and Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs) related to DART and NAMs.
• Organize follow-up activities to advance the development of a harmonized DART testing roadmap.
• Foster international dialogue to promote acceptance and integration of DART NAMs into regulatory frameworks.
• Lobby for funding opportunities and build collaborative proposals for DART research.
• Bridge DART testing with the 'One Health' approach by expanding the focus from human health to other species.

We are looking for a research associate/postdoc with experience in the EU/international chemical regulatory landscape and/or NAM area.

• PhD or equivalent degree in toxicology, biology, biomedical sciences, or a related field.
• Proven experience and interest in regulatory toxicology or NAMs, preferably with knowledge of DART or DNT.
• Strong organizational skills and experience in coordinating international scientific initiatives or networks.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; additional languages, especially German, are a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to write scientific publications and competitive grant applications (i.e., research funding, conference travel grants).
• Passion for networking and communication.
• Passion for innovation, ethics, and science-driven policy.

The successful candidate will be integrated in a dynamic, multidisciplinary international research environment connected to EU-funded projects like PARC and CHIASMA.

• A key leadership role in a high-impact, internationally recognized initiative.
• The opportunity to shape the future of regulatory toxicology and contribute to a healthier environment.
• Establishing a network and collaboration with a global community of leading scientists, regulatory bodies, and industry pioneers.
• An intellectually stimulating work environment at the interface of science and policy.
• Flexible working conditions and employment under the terms of the University of Basel.

Application / Contact
Please submit your application including a motivational letter, CV, degree documents and two reference contacts. Closing date for applications is 04.05.2025. For further details, please contact the SCAHT Director, Prof. Dr. Ellen Fritsche, [email protected].