Postdoc position in Developmental Neurobiology at FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated cell/developmental or neurobiologist to join the group of Dr. Andreas Sagner at the Institute for Biochemistry at the FAU Erlangen.

Background

Proper development and function of the vertebrate nervous system requires the generation of distinct types of neurons, which need to be specified at the right place, time and number and then be correctly connected to each other. Recent estimates suggest that the vertebrate nervous system comprises several thousand molecularly and functionally distinct neuronal cell types. Our understanding of how this diversity is generated during development is still partial.

We study how a recently uncovered temporal patterning program, which depends on cohorts of transcription factors that are specific for early, intermediate, or late-born neurons, contributes to the establishment of neuronal diversity in the developing spinal cord. The main aims of the lab are to 1.) uncover the molecular signals and gene regulatory networks that control temporal patterning in the spinal cord; 2) decipher the molecular logic by which transcription factors defining different spatial and temporal neuronal identities jointly establish neuronal subtype-specific patterns of gene expression and 3.) delineate how temporal patterning of neurons in the embryo underlies neuronal diversity and connectivity in the adult spinal cord. To achieve this aim we use transgenic stem cell and mouse models and a wide repertoire of state-of-the-art methods. These range from molecular biology techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 genome engineering, epigenomic profiling of transcription factor binding sites and single cell transcriptomics to mouse genetics, in-vivo cell labelling and histological experiments.

Candidates

We are looking for an enthusiastic, knowledge-driven candidate with a PhD in cell, developmental or neurobiology or related fields who is interested in addressing fundamental questions at the intersection between developmental and neurobiology. We particularly value curiosity and the ability to work independently and responsibly. Candidates with prior knowledge in areas related to the work of the lab, such as handling of mice, cultivation and differentiation of stem cells, epigenomic profiling assays and their bioinformatic analysis, or previous experience with techniques to assess neuronal connectivity and function are particularly encouraged to apply.

Position

• Payment according to German TV-L salary scale, pay grade E13
• Fixed term, initially limited to 2-3 years
• Closing date 01.10.2021
• Flexible starting date between November 2021 and January 2022

In case of interest

Please submit a letter of interest (max 1-2 pages), academic CV including publication list and contact details for 2-3 references to andreas.sagner[at]fau.de. Informal enquiries can be addressed to Andreas Sagner at andreas.sagner[at]fau.de.