PhD student (m/f/d)

The research of the behavioral neurobiology group focuses on the research of underlying patho mechanisms of various neurodegenerative diseases of the cerebral brain, such as spinocerebellary ataxy type 6 and episodic ataxy type 2. The focus is on the research of channels, receptors and GPCR, which occur on Purkinje cells of the brain and contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases and neurodivergencies (e.g. autism). Using different mouse models, new therapeutic approaches can be developed and characterized. In the planned project, special GPCRs expressing in the cerebral brain, whose endogenous ligand and physiological function are hitherto unknown (so-called orphan GPR), are to be characterized in more detail. For this purpose, various in vitro experiments are first to be carried out in order to be able to investigate the physiological function, ligands and signal paths. In the course of the project, the orphan GPR is also examined in various mouse models to investigate their function in the healthy and neurodegeneratively affected brain. As a researcher (m/w/d) you prepare independently and reliably experiments, perform these, evaluate the results Molecular biological work: cloning of various plasmids and sensors with common molecular biological techniques (PCR, restriction digestion, ligations etc) Cultivation of cells: passengers, care, transfect and manufacture of a stable GPR-specific cell line for in vitro studies, performing assays for identifying the GPCR signal pathways Biochemical assays: performing co-immune precipitation, Western blots, high-performance liquid chromatography with coupled mass spectrometry, fluorescence microscopy and analysis of fluorescence recordings, performing Ca2+ imaging Experiments with mice: performing and evaluating various behaviour experiments, organ withdrawals with subsequent histological analysis (IHC, qPCR, Western Blot) Electrophysiological recordings Dissipation and recording of Purkinje cells in vivo with subsequent analysis Support for Bachelor's and Master's thesis as well as support for building and special modules

We are looking for a candidatein with a very good Master's degree in Biology in the field of neurobiology/Neuroscience or comparable studies. The applicant should ideally have the following experiences: Excellent English skills Experience in planning and performing molecular biological work Experience in cell culture Experience with animal experimental work (FELASA B necessary, should be retrieved at the latest at the start of the work) Competence in project planning and co-design Further knowledge of GPCRs We are looking for an open, extroverted and scientifically enthusiastic person who, in addition, stands out from other applicants through team skills, self-sufficiency and care, as well as outstanding achievements during his studies. The willingness to learn unknown methods and to hold lectures in English is assumed. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to acquire the other are assumed.

General Zoology and Neurobiology AG Behavior Neurobiology Volume: Parttime Duration: fixed, 3 years Start: at the next possible time Apply up to: 28.04.2026 30 days holiday per year Comprehensive possibilities for further education and training Family-friendly workplace (childcare on holiday, kita, mobile children's room) Interdisciplinary cooperation in an international, committed and open team Workshops, congresses, symposia, journal clubs for interdisciplinary exchange Further information: Employment is in the employment relationship and is governed by the collective agreement of the countries (TV-L). The grouping takes place in the event of the fulfilment of the personal and collective conditions in the E13 TV-L remuneration group. For further information, see https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/. The office is the Ruhr-Universität Bochum. The scope of the teaching obligation depends on § 3 of the teaching obligation regulation NRW.

A qualified application is expected. The RUB is a university with international broadcasting. Campus languages are German and English. The RUB provides free services for employees. The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection discussions. At the request of an applicant (m/w/d), he shall ensure his participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.

Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) is one of the leading research universities in Germany. As a reform-oriented campus university, it unites in a unique way the entire range of large science areas in one place. The dynamic interaction of subjects and discipline cultures gives researchers and students the same special opportunities for interdisciplinary cooperation.

The RUB stands for diversity and equal opportunities. We therefore encourage the cooperation of heterogeneous teams and the professional path of people who are underrepresented in the respective areas of work. The RUB expressly wishes to apply for women. In areas where You are underrepresented, You are preferably taken into account with the same qualification. Applications for people with disabilities are also very welcome. .