Opening for 1 Postdoc (Iden lab)

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

The position … You will be part of the new national research consortium HetCCI (DFG-SPP 2493; coordinated by Sandra Iden). The project focuses on interactions between epithelial cells and their non-epithelial neighbors in mammalian skin and will use a range of cutting-edge technologies to identify mechanisms of cell-cell communication. The applicants must have a strong interest in cell biology and mechanistic approaches. We are looking for a cell biologist with experience in studying direct epithelial cell-cell interactions, or alternatively in sensory neuron or tissue-resident immune cell biology. Preference will be given to applicants with experience in using mouse models (incl. EU function A certification), primary cell systems, and flow cytometry. As member of the HetCCI consortium, the candidate will benefit from regular network meetings across Germany, technical workshops, young scientist retreats, and further career development measures

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 … an enthusiastic and creative candidate who is motivated to answer exciting biological questions. Applicants should have a PhD (no longer than 2 years 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. 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 position … is 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.