Job ID: 122035

PhD position in cellular neuroscience

Position: Ph.D. Student

Deadline: 15 March 2025

Employment Start Date: 1 May 2025

Contract Length: 36 months

City: Cologne

Country: Germany

Institution: University of Cologne

Department: CECAD Cluster of excellence & Center for Physiology

Description:

The laboratory of Prof. Natalia Kononenko at the University of Cologne (Medical Faculty & CECAD Excellence Cluster) is looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to investigate the role of the endocytosis in Purkinje cells and the impact of its deletion on brain-wide motor circuits (see Tolve et al., 2025, Cell Reports). This project is part of CRC1451 (https://www.crc1451.uni-koeln.de/) and involves advanced mouse models, rabies tracing, chemogenetics, multi-omics, super-resolution microscopy, miniscope Ca2+ imaging, offering an excellent opportunity to engage in cutting-edge neurobiology research.

Open PhD position in cellular neuroscience

Activities and responsibilities

  • Conduct research in mouse models to investigate how inhibition of endocytosis in Purkinje cells affects information processing in the thalamo-cortical network.
  • Perform experiments in cerebellar organotypic slice cultures using GCaMP6-based calcium imaging and chemogenetics.
  • Perform stereotactic surgeries and use chemogenetics to manipulate brain motor circuits.
  • Conduct biochemical assays, such as pull-down experiments and proteomic analyses.

Maintain accurate lab records and clearly present findings in meetings.

Qualification profile

  • Master’s degree in Neuroscience, Cell Biology, or Biochemistry (with very good to excellent grades).
  • Experience with techniques such as rodent models of neurodegeneration, primary cell culture, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, image analysis, and biochemical assays.
  • Strong motivation to advance research in neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Proficiency in English.
  • Excellent organizational skills, a proactive attitude, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn.

We offer

All social benefits provided by working for the public service: e.g. an annual bonus, payment of benefits.

Start Date and Location: April/May 2025, in Cologne, Germany.
Application Process:Please submit a single PDF containing the following: