SCIENCE-JOBS-DE 

PhD position (Berlin)

Job offer 06/2015

The Leibniz-Institute for Molecular Pharmacology (FMP) belongs to the „Forschungsverbund Berlin e. V. (FVB)“. The FVB is an institution of eight natural sciences research institutes in Berlin funded by the Federal Republic of Germany and the association of its federal states. The research institutes are members of the Leibniz association.
Our Emmy Noether Research group is a young and independent research team associated to the German Leibniz foundation and located at the central Charité campus in Berlin. We focus on the molecular mechanisms that link the fusion of neurotransmitter containing synaptic vesicles to the subsequent endocytosis reaction for membrane retrieval. We are especially interested in understanding how scaffolding proteins at the active zone optimize synapses for rapid and synchronized exo- and endocytosis.

In the independent research group „Molecular and Theoretical Neuroscience” (headed by Dr. Alexander Walter), Leibniz Institute for Molecular Pharmacology, Berlin aPhD position is available for 3 years (extension possible) within the field of neuroscience.  Topic: the mechanism of exo- and endocytic coupling.
The starting date is 01.03.2015 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Backround:
Communication between neurons relies on fast chemical transmission across synaptic contacts where presynaptic exocytosis of neurotransmitter-laden synaptic vesicles (SVs) activates postsynaptic responses. Exocytosis is controlled by Ca2+ and occurs at dynamic foci, called active zones (AZs). Subsequent endocytosis ensures presynaptic homeostasis and continued activity by supporting vesicle re-cycling. Evidently, synchronization of exo- and endocytosis is warranted for effective neurotransmission. However, surprisingly little is known about molecular mechanisms linking these reactions. In this project we will investigate the molecular machinery that optimizes AZs for rapid and tightly controlled exo- and endocytosis. Part of the work will constitute of establishing an assay to simultaneously measure exo- and endocytosis with high temporal resolution and to uncouple these reactions by acute interference of protein function at AZs of the Drosophila Neuromuscular Junction. The c!
 andidate will learn and apply molecular and immunostaining methods and perform electrophysiological and optical measurements.

The successful candidate will be embedded in a highly interactive and international research team consisting of 4-6 people with diverse backgrounds. We pursue a vigorous research program using various state-of-the art techniques.

Requirements:
A relevant master degree (MSc) or exam at similar level.
The candidate must be excellent, highly motivated and self-driven, and able to work both independently and in a research team.
Experience with electrophysiology, immunostaining, molecular biology, and biochemistry is an advantage, but not a prerequisite.
Fluency in English and excellent communication skills are a strong requirement.

For more information please contact:
Dr. Alexander Walter  ;  e-mail: Alexander.Walter@charite.de  ; Tel: (+49) 30 450 639026

Salaries will be based on TVöD. We offer equal opportunities regardless of gender, age ethnic origin or religion. We welcome applications of disabled candidates who will be given preference in case of equal qualification. We offer assistance in finding childcare on the campus.
Please send the application as an attachment (preferably as a single pdf-file) to Dr. Alexander Walter, email:Alexander.Walter@charite.de.    Deadline for applications including all materials is  20.02.2015.

The application must include:
•       A reasoned letter stating the applicant’s motivation and background for the specific project.
•       Curriculum Vitae including the applicant’s former work and scientific experience.
•       A list of publications (if any).
•       Letters of recommendation, and contact details of 2-3 persons for references.
•       Diploma and transcripts of records (including grades/marks).

Applications received after the deadline, or with insufficient documentation or otherwise not complying with the above requirements, may not be considered.

Marina Spors
spors@fmp-berlin.de
Leibniz-Institut für Molekulare Pharmakologie im Forschungsverbund Berlin.e.V.
Berlin