PhD position – Interdisciplinary project in Developmental Neurobiology / Mechanobiology

PhD position – Interdisciplinary project Developmental Neurobiology / Mechanobiology

is available in the Stem Cells and Neurogenesis laboratory led by Prof. Chichung Lie at the Institute for Biochemistry (FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany).

Background

Neural stem cells in the mammalian hippocampus give rise to new neurons throughout life, thereby contributing to hippocampus-dependent learning and memory. Adult neurogenesis is regulated by the interaction of Stem Cells with the local pro-neurogenic environment (“niche”). Dysfunction of the niche is a major cause of declining stem cell activity and impaired neurogenesis during aging. Neural stem cells have been largely considered “victims” of niche dysfunction. The PhD student will investigate the novel concept that neural stem cells actively shape the pro-neurogenic niche and that aging causes a vicious cycle of stem cell and niche dysfunction. A particular focus will be on biomechanical properties of the niche and exosome-mediated signaling. The project will combine state-of-the-art molecular, cell biological and biophysical analyses of sophisticated transgenic mouse models and cell culture models.

Candidates

We are looking for an enthusiastic, knowledge-driven student with an excellent Master’s degree in Molecular Medicine, Biology, Biophysics or related fields who is interested in addressing fundamental questions at the intersection between developmental neurobiology and mechanobiology. We particularly value curiosity, the will to explore and the ability to work independently and responsibly in a team. No further specific prerequisites are required, although prior knowledge in areas related to the work of the lab, such as handling of mice, cultivation and differentiation of stem cells, imaging may be advantageous.

About us

We are an enthusiastic, dynamic and international lab (www.biochemie.med.fau.de/research/ag-lie-en/). The lab is embedded within the thriving developmental biology and neuroscience communities in Erlangen, offering successful PhD candidates a highly interdisciplinary and stimulating work environment with access to state-of-the-art equipment and research facilities. The project will involve a close collaboration with the “Neuronal Mechanics” laboratory of Prof. Kristian Franze (Max-Planck-Centre for Physics and Medicine; https://mpzpm.de/research/kristian-franze). Successful candidates will be enrolled in the graduate school of the Life Sciences Life@FAU (www.life.fau.de), offering a structured curriculum and a wide range of scientific and soft-skill training programs. Association with the Neuroscience Graduate School RTG2162 “Neurodevelopment and CNS Vulnerability” (www.grk2162.med.fau.de) is possible.

Position

• Payment according to TV-L (E13 65%)
• Initially limited to 2.5 years with possibility for extension
• Application closes 21.4.2023
• Start date 01.07.2023

In case of interest

Please submit a letter of interest (max 1-2 pages), academic CV and publication list and arrange for a letter of reference to be directly send to chi.lie@fau.de. For further information, please contact chi.lie@fau.de.