The Department for Biomedical Research (DBMR) is launching a new Biological Data Science Hub and invites applications for a Data Scientist specialized in image analysis. This is a unique opportunity to take on a leadership role in shaping the future of data-driven biomedical research at the University of Bern and beyond. 

About the Hub 

The Biological Data Science Hub has three key missions: 

● Education: Empowering labs to adopt cutting-edge data science methods by training PhDs and postdocs and embedding best practices directly in research groups. 

● Community: Building a strong data science culture through regular meetings, collaborations with national and international partners, and yearly symposia. 

● Open Data: Promoting FAIR data practices, sharing code, and fostering reproducible, cost-efficient research. 

As a pillar leader in image analysis, you will play a central role in advancing these missions. 

Your Role 

We are seeking a scientist with expertise in biological image analysis who can combine technical excellence with vision and initiative. In this role, you will:

● Lead the image analysis pillar of the Hub, bringing independence and initiative. 

● Design and implement state-of-the-art pipelines for biological imaging data. 

● Curate, collect, and manage datasets, contributing to the creation of a university-wide repository. 

● Guide and mentor researchers across DBMR labs in best practices and advanced image-analysis methods. 

● Organize training sessions, workshops, and community events. 

● Represent the Hub nationally and internationally by promoting our activities at conferences and building collaborations. 

● Contribute to setting standards for FAIR and reproducible data science. 

Your Profile 

● PhD or MSc in computer science, biomedical image analysis, or a related field. 

● Expertise in image data science, including machine learning and deep learning. 

● Strong programming skills (Python required; R or similar desirable). 

● Experience in HPC/Linux environmentsand data-parallel processing. 

● Ability to work independently, take initiative, and lead projects. 

● Excellent communication and mentoring skills, with a collaborative mindset. 

Desirable: 

● Experience with microscopy image analysis (high-content screening, EM, light-sheet, confocal, etc.). 

● Familiarity with tools such as Fiji, CellProfiler, Napari. 

● Experience in collaborative software development. 

● Background in research or clinical data environments. 

We Offer 

● A 3-year fully funded position (80–100%). 

● A leadership role in a newly established, high-impact initiative. 

● Opportunities for career development and visibility within Switzerland’s leading biomedical and data science networks (EPFL AI Center, SIB, NCCR RNA & Disease, Zurich Vision Center). 

● A dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary environment within the Faculty of Medicine. 

● A supportive, collaborative team of experts in AI, data analysis, and computational biology. 

● Competitive salary and benefits. 

Practical Information 

● Start date: As soon as possible 

● Contract type 1-year renewable (up to 3 years) 

● Activity rate: 80–100%