PhD student (f/m/x) in Translational Protein Biochemistry

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The DZNE group Translational Protein Biochemistry (Prof. Dr. T.M Böckers) is offering 1 PhD position with focus on the molecular and synaptic pathomechanisms affecting neurons in neurological conditions especially neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia) and traumatic brain injury leading to neurodegeneration. In particular, the focus of this position will be to test novel modulators of synaptic activity to achieve neuroprotection. Our international research team is embedded in a collaboration between the DZNE group Translational Protein Biochemistry and the Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology and in two Collaborative Research Centres at the University of Ulm (SFB1149; SFB1506) and receives funding from prestigious national and international organizations (such as DFG, BMBF, Else Kröner-Fresenius-Stiftung, Frick Foundation). By working in close collaboration with the Clinic of Neurology, we prioritize investigations aimed at a better understanding of pathological conditions, as well as the development of novel therapeutic strategies that might be transferred to patients. Our lab has long experience in the investigation of the physiological and pathologic mechanisms characterizing the neuron, and especially the synapse, by using a collection of murine models (Shanks-deficient) and a unique library of human iPSC lines (from PMDS, ALS, SMA, FTD and Alzheimer´s disease patients) that we differentiate into neuronal and glial cells, as well as cerebral and spinal organoids. The lab is equipped with a state-of-the-art setup including confocal, light sheet and STED microscopes, MEA devices and dedicated cell culture rooms for hiPSC-based models.

Successful applicants can obtain their doctoral degree by joining the International Graduate School in Molecular Medicine.

• Active participation in experimental work, experimental design, data generation, data analyses, and interpretation of results
• Prepare and write manuscripts for publication in international scientific journals
• Oral presentation of results on local, national, and international conferences
• Experimental work includes molecular biology, especially cell culture of induced pluripotent stem cells

• A keen interest in molecular biology and working with induced pluripotent stem cells
• Experience in molecular biology and handling of pluripotent stem cells is advantageous
• A master’s degree in molecular biology, neuroscience, biochemistry (or a master’s degree in a related field)
• Fluency in English

• Innovation and internationality:

  A forward-looking infrastructure, modern laboratory and office equipment, software tools and the opportunity for international exchange with your colleagues from 65 nations

• Personalised Onboarding:

  For a good start to your new professional challenge

• Health promotion:

  Through our extensive range of company health programmes, in cooperation with Sozialwerk.Bund

• A feel-good working environment:

  Our Bonn employees enjoy a campus surrounded by greenery, with on-site parking and public transport connections as well our company restaurant

• Focus on Development:

  Training programmes tailored to your individual needs and annual HR-development meetings for concrete prospects and potential development

• Family-conscious corporate culture:

  Because we know that familie is important, we support you with our family service

• Work-life balance:

  We reconcile work and private life with flexible working hours, 30 days' holiday (On top free on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve) and subsidised job/ Germany ticket options

For questions prior to your application, please contact Prof. Dr. Tobias Böckers (tobias.boeckers@dzne.de).