MASTER THESIS

MASTER THESIS

NeuroRestore is a research and innovation center spanning EPFL and the University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV) that develops and applies medical therapies aimed to restore neurological functions. We integrate implantable neurotechnologies with innovative treatments developed through rigorous preclinical and clinical studies. These developments have led to breakthroughs for the treatment of paraplegia, tetraplegia, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and traumatic brain injuries. By working with our network of vibrant high-tech start-ups and established medical technology companies, we are committed to validate our medical therapy concepts and see them used every day in rehabilitation clinics worldwide.

Targeted gene therapy for functional repair of the spinal cord

Our lab is tackling this challenge head-on using next-generation gene therapy strategies to drive axon regeneration and functional repair of the injured spinal cord.

This Master’s project offers a rare opportunity to work on a ground-breaking biological repair strategy with direct translational relevance for paralysis, while gaining hands-on training in some of the most advanced neuroscience techniques available today.
To assess, evaluate, and quantify improvements in motor function, robotic platforms are essential. In this project, you will work on a robotic platform for assessing lower limb rehabilitation in mice. The prototype consists of a treadmill with body weight support for rats and mice.

In terms of pratical work, the student will perform:

  • Histology (immunohistological stainings, tissue sectioning)

  • Imaging (use of high-quality microscopes such as slide-scanner and confocal microscope)

  • Image analysis

  • Rodent experiment related work

The lab is equipped with state-of-the-art neuroscience environment, including:

  • Rodent microsurgical and robotic platforms

  • Advance histology and immunohistochemistry

  • Whole-tissue clearing (LifeCanvas) for 3D visualization of neural circuits

  • High-end microscopy (slide-scanning, confocal, advanced imaging platforms)

  • Image analysis & quantitative neuroanatomy

  • High-throughput single-cell sequencing facilities

Preferred backgrounds: Biology, Neuroscience, Medicine, Bioengineering, or related fields

Helpful (but not required) experience:

  • Wet-lab research experience

  • Cryostat sectioning, immunohistochemistry

  • Microscopy and image analysis

  • Rodent animal work

  • Basic programming (R or similar)

Important message: We are looking for highly motivated, curious, and exceptional students who are eager to learn, think critically, and welcome feedback. Lack of specific techniques is not a barrier for the right candidate. Moreover, applicants are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with some of our recent work in the lab, particularly: Soriano*, Hudelle* et al., Nature, 2025 and Squair*, Milano* et al., Science, 2023

Preferred starting date: Rolling application (duration of at least 4 months)

Contact (cc): jan.soriano@epfl.ch or remi.hudelle@epfl.ch

Yue Yang Teo