PhD Position in Cellular and Systems Neuroscience

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The project is part of the DFG-funded Research Unit FOR 5705 (Neuro Flame - Defence and demise of inflamed neurons) and aims at decoding the vulnerability of sensorimotor neurons to neuroinflammation. It is carried out in close collaboration with Prof. Lucas Schirmer (Neurology Clinic, University Medicine Mannheim) and combines a wide range of expertises (synaptic structure and function, cellular and molecular neuroscience, systems neuroscience, multiple sclerosis) and techniques (in vivo imaging, image analysis, optogenetics, electrophysiology, patch-seq, stereotaxic delivery, spatio-temporal omics, single cell transcriptomics, neurological model systems).

Using these resources, we aim to elucidate the mechanisms underlying selective vulnerability of cortical neurons to a transient inflammation caused along the projection axons of layer 5 neurons in the internal capsule. Exciting preliminary data suggests that only distinct populations of neurons are affected and others are resilient. Changes in activity patterns and single cell transcriptional profiles will be correlated with the susceptibility of neurons to die or survive.

This will provide new mechanistic insights into how neurons respond to inflammation and may lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

We envision applicants to be highly motivated and keenly interested in molecular and cellular neuroscience as well as in state-of-the-art technology in neuroscience. A Master’s degree in life sciences, preferentially neuroscience, neurobiology or related areas and experience in fluorescence imaging and analysis of imaging data are encouraged.

The position is funded according to the public salary scheme TV-L (E13, 65%), is available at the closest possible date and limited to a three-year period. Heidelberg University and University Hospital provide attractive support for young families.

Please submit your application in a single PDF file containing a cover letter stating your research experience and interests, career goals (max 2 pages), CV, two references or letters of recommendation and academic transcript until 30.04.2025 to:

Prof. Dr. Thomas Kuner, Dept. of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology.

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