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PhD Student (Cell Biology & Biomechanics) : Munster, Germany

The University Hospital of Münster is one of the leading hospitals in Germany. Such a position cannot be achieved by size and medical successes alone. The individual commitment counts above all. We need your commitment so that even with little things we can achieve great things for our patients. There are many possibilities open for you so that you may develop with them.

PhD Position in Cell Biology and Biomechanics

Curvature Selectivity as Core Parameter for Temporal and Spatial Organization of Signaling Hubs at Deforming Cellular Membranes

We are looking for:

PhD student (cell biology & biomechanics)
Ref.: 11953
Salary according to German TV-L E 13 65%

to work in the research group of Dr. Galic at the Cluster of Excellence 'Cells in Motion' and the Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics at the University of Münster, Germany.

Job description:

The Galic lab investigates the spatio-temporal dynamics of force detection and force regulation in cells. Coordination of intra- and intercellular forces occurs in a number of cellular systems and is believed to be a crucial element that contributes among others to cell architecture, directionality and speed of cell migration, as well as collective cell behavior. Despite its importance, the molecular mechanisms underlying force-control have largely remained unclear.

In this project, we will investigate the molecular mechanisms that organize individual curvature-sensing proteins into functionally distinct signaling units at deforming membranes. Specifically, we aim to answer (i) whether differences in membrane curvature selectivity of individual proteins are sufficient to control the temporal order in which curvature-sensing proteins appear at spontaneously deforming membranes and (ii) if differences in membrane curvature selectivity of individual proteins can lead to asymmetric spatial organization of these proteins in aggregates that form at curved membranes.

The prospective holder of the position will be working in the research group of Dr. Galic at the Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics (IMPB). The institute offers a well-equipped, international working environment where talented and self-motivated students will find excellent opportunities to develop and pursue their personal scientific ideas.

Your profile:

You are an enthusiastic, ambitious scientist who is not afraid to work in an interdisciplinary, international team. You have a recent diploma or master degree in cell biology, biophysics, physics or a similar discipline. Experience with cell biology, biomechanics, microscopy and image analysis are welcome, but are not a condition; a keen interest to learn these topics, however, is necessary. Good English and communication skills, as well as an interest in different scientific fields, are needed due to the interdisciplinary nature of the project.

The position is available as of now. Following a probation phase (12 months), employment will be extended to a total of three years.

Applications including the reference number 11953 of the job post, a current resume with academic transcripts and 3 professional references should be sent until 1.11.2016 to bewerbung@ukmuenster.de.

For further information please visit the homepage https://campus.uni-muenster.de/en/einrichtungen/impbo/nanoscale-forces-in-cells/ or contact Dr. Galic (Group leader): galic@uni-muenster.de.

Applications of women are specifically invited. In the case of similar qualifications, competence, and specific achievements, women will be considered on preferential terms within the framework of the legal possibilities. Handicapped candidates with equivalent qualifications will be given preference.

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Employer:University Hospital of Munster

Website:http://www.ukmuenster.de

Location:Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebaude D5, Munster, Germany

Expires:November 02, 2016

Job type:PhD Studentship

Salary:Unspecified

Qualifications:Unspecified

Employment type:Contract

Job hours:Part-time