Openings for 1 Postdoc, 1 PhD student and 1 Technician (Iden lab)

The Iden lab at Saarland University, Institute for Cell and Developmental Biology at the Faculty of Medicine, campus Homburg, Germany, has openings for a postdoc, PhD student and technician (f/m/x).

Our group … investigates mechanisms of mammalian cell-cell communication, cell adhesion, cell polarity and fate control in development, tissue homeostasis and diseases including cancer. We ask how changes in cell shape and intercellular communication are coordinated in self-renewing tissues like the skin epidermis, and study how cell polarity, cell adhesion and mechanical signals are coupled at the molecular, cellular and organismal level to ensure proper tissue function. Combining mouse genetics and disease models with primary co-culture systems, imaging and biophysical approaches, we aim to understand causal relationships between disturbed cytoskeletal regulation, polarity signaling and disease. Moreover, we examine mechanisms underlying tissue-scale intercellular communication, e.g. between epithelial cells, melanocytes, and immune cells.

Research environment: The research group is part of the interfaculty Center of Human and Molecular Biology (ZHMB, bridging the medical and natural & technical sciences faculties), and is embedded in a strong interdisciplinary research environment with highly collaborative basic and clinically-oriented science programs and state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure. Moreover, we are committed to a better molecular understanding of sex-specific differences in biology and medicine (see CGBM).

We seek … enthusiastic and creative candidates who are motivated to answer exciting biological questions. Applicants should have a Master of Science degree (PhD student applicants) or PhD (postdoc applicants, no longer than a year after PhD) in biology, biochemistry, biophysics or related, and a strong interest in cell biology and biomedicine. Proficiency in molecular biology, biochemistry and cell culture techniques is expected. Strong background in imaging techniques, in vivo analyses, or immunological tools are welcome. For the technician, preference will be given to candidates with prior experience in mouse models and related qualification. Ability for problem solving and critical thinking, good communication skills, fluency in English, and a sense for teamwork are crucial. We enjoy diversity in our team, and we strongly support a gender-balanced work environment.

The positions … are available immediately, initially limited to 2 years, with the possibility of extension. The salary will be based on wage requirements and personal qualifications according to TV-L of the pay scale for the German public sector. Applications will be considered until the positions are filled.

For more information … see the Iden lab website, Iden lab BlueSky, or contact Sandra Iden directly (sandra.iden@uni-saarland.de).

To apply … please send your complete application (incl. CV, certificates, a brief statement of research interests, and recommendation letter or contact information of two academic references; as single pdf file) by e-mail to sandra.iden@uni-saarland.de.