Job ID: 118962

A PhD Position to define the molecular timer(s) of homeostatic plasticity is available in the Team of Synaptic Neuroscience, University of Bonn Medical School, Germany.

Position: Ph.D. Student

Deadline: 31 December 2024

Employment Start Date: 1 July 2024

City: Bonn

Country: Germany

Institution: Bonn University Medical School

Department:

Description:

A PhD Position to define the molecular timer(s) of homeostatic plasticity is available in the Team of Synaptic Neuroscience, University of Bonn Medical School, Germany.

The PhD position is part of a DFG-funded research project in the research groups “Synaptic Plasticity in Health and Disease” (Prof. Dr. S. Schoch) and “Synaptic Neurobiology” (Prof. Dr. D. Dietrich) that aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the regulation of presynaptic homeostatic plasticity.

The central nervous system needs to maintain a balance between excitation and inhibition for stable functioning. This balance must also be kept during global increases in neuronal activity, for example during running. We now know that the timing of homeostatic regulation is critical for stable neuronal network function, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this timing and the molecular identity of the responsible timer(s) are still unknown. We have received funding from the DFG to identify molecular timers of homeostatic regulation and are seeking further support from a second PhD student interested in identifying novel key functions of natural neuronal networks.

This research will use neuronal cell cultures, state-of-the-art electrophysiology and imaging with novel fluorescent reporter proteins, and viral vectors (AAV/Lenti) to modulate synaptic protein levels. Together with super-resolution and electron microscopy, cell biological and biochemical techniques, the team aims to determine the mechanism and the subcellular site of action of the molecular timer(s) of homeostatic plasticity.

The ideal candidate will be an analytical and highly motivated graduate student with a strong interest in neurobiology.Prior research experience with microscopy or electrophysiology techniques is advantageous. Candidates should hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in Neuroscience or Biological Science. Candidates should also demonstrate aptitude in written and spoken English and be aware that progress in life science relies on using experimental animals to a certain degree.

Interested candidates should send curriculum vitae, letter of motivation indicating starting date, short description of past lab experience, copies of university degree(s) with academic records, contact information and at least two reference letters (or the referee’s contact info) as a single PDF file.

Salary will be according to the German salary scale TV-L E13 (65%). The University Bonn is a provider of equal opportunity in compliance with the German disability laws. Women and in particular individuals with disability are strongly encouraged to apply.

Questions concerning the projects can be addressed to Prof. Dr. S. Schoch (susanne.schoch@uni-bonn.de). Applications by email only can be sent to Susanne.schoch@uni-bonn.de.