Background

Sleep processes are essential for health, recovery, and memory function. Animal studies and observational studies in humans further suggest that deeper sleep is associated with a slower progression of neurodegenerative processes. Several studies investigate whether targeted deepening of sleep has positive effects in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. This includes, on the one hand, the progression of neurodegenerative processes in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, and on the other hand, applications within the context of neurorehabilitation in Parkinson’s disease.

For sleep deepening, a non-invasive, non-pharmacological method of acoustic deep sleep stimulation is used: by playing sounds that are synchronized with brain activity, deep sleep activity is enhanced. For these studies, a committed study physician is sought.

Main responsibilities

• Screening of patients in the clinic with regard to potential eligibility for studies,
  
• Providing study information and obtaining informed consent from study participants,
  
• Collection and assessment of medical history,
  
• Clinical care of patients during study participation,
  
• Documentation and reporting of adverse events and initiation of necessary clinical measures under supervision,
  
• Conducting medical examinations within the framework of clinical studies,
  
• Contribution to study-specific documentation in accordance with GCP guidelines,
  
• Conducting study visits.
  

Profile

• Completed medical degree (Swiss federal diploma or a recognized foreign diploma),
  
• Experience in the field of neurology,
  
• Clinical experience in Parkinson’s disease, dementia and/or sleep medicine is an advantage,
  
• Interest in clinical research and patient-oriented study work,
  
• Structured, responsible, and independent working style,
  
• Good communication skills when interacting with patients,
  
• Very good German skills and good written and spoken English skills; knowledge of another national language is an advantage,
  
• Willingness to travel within Switzerland.
  

What is offered

• A varied and responsible position in an academically excellent environment,
  
• Participation in innovative clinical studies in the field of neurodegenerative diseases and sleep,
  
• Involvement in scientific publications,
  
• Collaboration within a highly motivated, interdisciplinary team at the Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich,
  
• Employment conditions under public law at the University of Zurich.
  

Application

Interested candidates are invited to submit their application dossier (CV, letter of motivation, certificates, and contact details of two references) to

Dr. Angelina Maric