Positions for MSc students in Biochemistry, Molecular Cell Biology or Molecular Medicine with possibility to conduct PhD

The Leibniz-Institut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP) is a non-university research institute that conducts basic research in molecular pharmacology and is legally represented by the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V. (FVB). As a member of the Leibniz Association the FMP is jointly funded by the Federal Republic of Germany and its States.

The research groups of Prof. V. Haucke and Prof. M. Krauß (Dept. of. Molecular Pharmacology & Cell Biology) offer

Two MSc student positions to conduct thesis work in biochemistry, molecular cell biology, or molecular medicine

starting 1 April 2016 (or later). Following successful completion of the MSc thesis work it is possible to extend these studies to a PhD thesis. The groups study the mechanisms of endocytic and endosomal membrane dynamics with a focus on the role of phosphoinositides, important signalling molecule with key roles in cancer, cell growth, muscle function, and neurodegeneration, and the role of the cytoskeleton. We use an interdisciplinary approach that combines optical imaging with cell biological, biochemical and physiological studies in cultured cells and in mutant mice in vivo (selected recent publications: von Kleist et al (2011) Cell 146:471-484; Haucke et al (2011) Nat Rev Neurosci 12:127-138; Wieffer et al. (2013) Curr Biol 23: 2185-2190; Posor et al (2013) Nature 499:233-237; Kononenko et al., (2014) Neuron 82: 981–988; Daumke et al., (2014) Cell 156: 882-892; Ketel et al., (2016) Nature 529: 408-412). For further information: http://www.fmp-berlin.info/research/molec!
 ular-physiology-and-cell-biology/research-groups/haucke/department.html.

The first project is focussed on dissecting the function and biochemical characterization of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and phosphatase isoforms in health and disease. The second project aims at understanding the role of septins and their associated factors in membrane traffic at the Golgi and at organelle junctions as well as their regulation by phosphatidylinositol kinases. Both projects involve cellular models as well as in vitro studies using biochemical, genetic, and cell biological (e.g. microscopic imaging) techniques.

Qualification
Applicants should be enrolled in a master's program in biochemistry, molecular biology, molecular medicine or alike. Candidates with a strong interest in molecular cell biology, protein biochemistry and microscopic imaging techniques are especially encouraged to apply. A good command of the English language and a high personal motivation to excel in science are required. We offer a stimulating environment in an international research group.

Salary
MSc students will receive a limited salary during the period of their thesis work. Subsequent PhD studies will be fully salaried according to the German public service salary scheme (E13, 65%).

How to Apply
Please send your application including CV and the names and contact information of 2 referees before 01 March 2016 to:  haucke@fmp-berlin.de or krauss@fmp-berlin.de.

Volker Haucke / Michael Krauss
krauss@fmp-berlin.de
Leibniz Institut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP)
Berlin