PhD Position in Molecular / Cellular Neuroscience

Center for Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; Hamburg; Vor Ort; EUR 50.000 - 60.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading research institution in Hamburg is seeking a Ph.D. student to conduct innovative research on neuronal protein homeostasis regulation. Candidates should hold a Master's degree in a relevant field and possess excellent English skills. The role involves utilizing cutting-edge microscopy techniques to explore the synaptic function. Women and candidates from diverse backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply. This position offers a collaborative research environment focused on neuroscience.

Qualifikationen

• Master's degree in a relevant area is required.
• Knowledge of microscopy and experience with cell cultures is an advantage.
• Strong intrinsic drive and openness to diverse work environment.

Aufgaben

• Conduct research on neuronal protein homeostasis regulation.
• Utilize live-imaging techniques and super-resolution microscopy.
• Investigate pathways shaping the synaptic proteome.

Kenntnisse

Fluorescence microscopy techniques

Primary cell cultures

Excellent written and spoken English

Ausbildung

M. Sc. in Biology, Biotechnology, or Neuroscience

Jobbeschreibung

Position: Ph.D. Student

Deadline: 1 March 2026

Employment Start Date: 1 February 2026

City: Hamburg

Country: Germany

Institution: Center for Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf

Department:

Description:

The Research Group Synaptic Proteostasis (SynPro) is looking for a doctoral student to join the project within DFG-Funded FOR5228 Syntophagy to conduct research on neuronal protein homeostasis regulation. Neurons are highly complex cells with dendrites and axons extending several hundred microns from the soma. This complexity comes together with high synaptic activity that requires timely and precise mechanisms controlling synaptic protein content. We are interested in understanding how neurons have adapted to cope with this complexity to ensure proper synaptic function. (Grochowska et al., 2022). Recently, we discovered a novel mechanism of protein homeostasis, dendritic, exocytic lysosomes that release cargo to the extracellular space. This process is driven by synaptic activity and also influences synaptic structure (Grochowska et al., 2023). In the project, live‑imaging techniques and super‑resolution microscopy (DNA‑PAINT) combined with work on the primary, dissociated hippocampal cultures will be used to understand the contribution of the related pathways in shaping the synaptic proteome. We are seeking ambitious, highly motivated, and talented scientists eager to address fundamental questions concerning lysosomal protein homeostasis with the use of cutting‑edge microscopy tools.

Qualifications

The successful applicant will hold a M. Sc. in a relevant area (e.g. Biology, Biotechnology, Neuroscience). The knowledge of fluorescence microscopy techniques and experience with primary cell cultures is a plus. The applicant should have excellent written and spoken English (knowledge of German language is not required), as well as a strong intrinsic drive to pursue a scientific career, and openness to work in a diverse research environment. Women and persons from diverse backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply.

Research Environment

The Research Group Synaptic Proteostasis is part of the Institute for Synaptic Neuroscience at the Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH) at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), one of Europe’s leading university hospitals. The research environment of ZMNH is focused around diverse neuroscience topics with employees from all over the world.

Application

If you are interested, please submit a complete application through this form https://form.jotform.com/253495539377372 . Applications will be considered upon submission. The position is available from 01.02.2026 (negotiable) and is based on the civil service contracts (TVöD) for four years. We reserve the right not to consider incomplete applications and applications that do not live up to the above‑mentioned requirements.