Position: PhD position in Synaptic Physiology - Mechanogenetic Repair of Neural Connectivity
Location: University of Trieste, Italy
Closing date: 30th May, 2025
Job description
We are seeking an outstanding and motivated candidate for a PhD position in Synaptic Physiology. The successful applicant will join our multidisciplinary team at the University of Trieste to work on developing and validating synaptic magneto-genetic tools for repairing brain connectivity.
This project, part of the European research initiative SynMech (www.synmech.eu; Horizon-EIC-2022-Pathfinderopen-01-01), aims to assess the efficacy of a novel mechanogenetic toolkit to regulate neural connectivity, with a focus on therapeutic applications for fragile X syndrome, a severe neurodevelopmental disorder. Mechanogenetics merges the precision of optogenetics with the versatility of magneto-mechanical stimulation.
The candidate will employ live imaging and electrophysiological approaches, including patch-clamp and MEA recordings, in primary neuronal cultures and brain slices.
The candidate
The ideal candidate holds an MSc in biology, physics, neuroscience or a related field. Experience in electrophysiology and/or live imaging, coupled with a background in neuroscience, is desirable. Candidates must be able to thrive in an international, competitive research environment.
Join a dynamic research team driven by passion and curiosity for science. Benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaboration opportunities across Europe. The position includes the possibility of training periods in Germany and the Netherlands. With a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
Our laboratory employs an integrative experimental approach, combining molecular, imaging and electrophysiological methods in mouse models of neurological disorders (Thalhammer et al., 2017 Cell Rep 20, 333-343; Ferrante et al., 2021 Cell Rep 35 109248, Jaudon et al., 2022 Mol Ther Nucleic Acids 29 462-480, Moretto et al. 2023 Elife 12, Jaudon and Cingolani, 2024 Trends Cell Biol 34(12): 1029-1043, Vitale et al. 2025 Brain). https://dsv.units.it/en/research/researchareas/researchgroups/43349
How to apply
Direct your enquiries or submit your application to Prof. Lorenzo Cingolani ([email protected]) before May 30, 2025. Please include a motivation letter, your CV and contact details of at least two referees.