Job Title: Postdoctoral Neuroscientist
Location: Magdeburg, Germany
Closing Date: 30th August 2022
Job Description
A postdoc position in Neuroscience is being offered at Otto-von-Guericke University, Institute of Physiology, for a candidate with experience in electrophysiology and optogenetic stimulation of synaptic circuits. The candidate is expected to design and execute live cell imaging and neurophysiological experiments in acute and cultured brain slices.
Project title: Investigation of BDNF and dopamine release-dependent modulation of synaptic circuits in the hippocampus.
The lab's research:
With the help of electrophysiological techniques, high-resolution fluorescence microscopy and behavioural experiments, our group investigates the cellular physiology of synaptic signal processing, and in particular the cellular mechanisms of BDNF- and dopamine-dependent synaptic plasticity. Our projects are funded by various third-party funds (DFG, BMBF, EU Horizon 2020).
We offer a stimulating environment with a long experience in neurotrophin and synaptic plasticity research (see e.g., Cepeda-Prado et al., Cereb Cor 2021; Brigadski & Lessmann, Cell Tiss Res 2020; Grössl et al., Nat Neurosci 2018; Edelmann et al., Neuron 2015).
Our international team investigates at systemic, cellular and subcellular levels, using behavioural, electrophysiological, and modern fluorescence microscopy methods:
- Intracellular transport, secretion and synaptic effects of neuropeptides (e.g. BDNF and other neurotrophins) in the mammalian CNS
- Regulation of synaptic plasticity (LTP, STDP) by neuromodulatory transmitters and neurotrophins in hippocampus, neocortex and amygdala
- Dopaminergic and BDNF-dependent neuromodulation of hippocampal, amygdala and neocortex-driven behaviour in the mouse
- Analysis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease-associated changes in synaptic transmission and memory formation in mouse models
The position is initially for 2 years. An extension is possible and highly desired.
Salary: Salary group 13 (100%) according to TV-L
The Candidate
- The position to be filled requires in-depth knowledge and practical experience in the fields of neurophysiology, cell physiology and cellular imaging.
- Practical knowledge of modern fluorescence microscopy methods (e.g. confocal and 2-photon imaging) in brain slice preparations and cultured cells from rats and mice is required.
- Existing expertise in the field of synaptic plasticity (LTP, STDP) is desirable.
Teaching
Participation in teaching in the subject of physiology (seminars and practical courses) for medical students is expected. Previous teaching experience in physiology would be an advantage.
If you have the relevant qualifications, you will be offered the opportunity to habilitate at the Otto-von-Guericke University in Magdeburg in Neuroscience or Physiology.
How to Apply
Please send your comprehensive application documents by email in one coherent PDF document and with reference to Prof. Dr. Volkmar Lessmann ([email protected]).