PostDoc (gn*) Physiology and Biophysics of Ion Channels in Human Sperm

PostDoc (gn*) Physiology and Biophysics of Ion Channels in Human Sperm
Fixed term of 3 years | Full-time with 100% | Salary according to salary group 13 TV-L | Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology | Job ID: 11720

We are UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility - ideally with you on board!
The position is located in the research group of Timo Strünker (Molecular Reproductive Physiology) and embedded in the DGF-funded Collaborative Research Centre 1748 ‘Principles of Reproduction’. The CRC 1748 involves scientists of the University of Münster, the University Hospital, and the Max Planck Institute Münster as well as scientists of the RWTH Aachen. Our central objective is to elucidate the genetic, molecular and cellular mechanisms governing the formation and function of the testis, production and function of sperm, fertilisation, as well as early embryonic development - in both health and disease. To this end, we combine interdisciplinary research in molecular, structural and cell biology as well as in physiology, biophysics, epi/genetics, (bio)informatics, and multimodal data analysis.
In this project, we will elucidate the molecular mechanisms that enable sperm to sense their chemical and physical environment, with a particular focus on ion channels and signalling molecules, proteins, and pathways.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Analyse the biophysical properties of sperm-specific ion channels
Dissect the interplay of ion channels in human sperm
Perform patch-clamp recordings from somatic cells and human sperm cells in combination with the use of caged compounds

REQUIREMENTS:
PhD in biology, biochemistry, pharmacy, physics, biomedicine, or other life sciences
Strong interest in physiology and biophysics of ion channels
Experience in studying ion channels using patch-clamp recordings
High motivation for scientific work and willingness to contribute to an interdisciplinary team
Commitment to research in a translational setting
Good English communication skills (spoken and written); German skills are advantageous
Knowledge of the use of photochemical tools, e.g., caged compounds (desired)

WE OFFER:
Salary according to tariff agreement, extra annual payment, and company pension plan (VBL)
30 days of vacation per year, plus two additional days off on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve
State-of-the-art techniques, tools, and experimental models for research
Competitive, interdisciplinary, creative and international research environment with a track record of intense mutual collaboration
A respectful and appreciative work environment within a diverse team
Support and advisory services for health and work-life balance
Additional benefits such as sports programs, job ticket, company events, cafeteria, and emergency childcare
For inquiries, please contact: Christoph Brenker, ,
Apply now via our career portal by 18 February 2026.
Please include:
Letter of motivation (max. two pages)
Summary of your doctoral thesis (max. one page)
Transcript and scanned copies of your degree certificates
Names and contact details of two references

BENEFITS
Exciting Projects
Professional Development and Training
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Part of Research Innovation
Additional Benefits

Exciting Projects
Professional Development and Training
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Part of Research Innovation
Additional Benefits

(*gn=gender neutral)
The University Hospital of Münster is one of the leading hospitals in Germany. Such a position cannot be achieved by size and medical successes alone. The individual commitment counts above all. We need your commitment so that even with little things we can achieve great things for our patients. There are many possibilities open for you so that you may develop with them.
Questions about how to apply? Click here
Equal opportunities are a part of our Human Resources Policy. UKM supports the compatibility of work and family life and is certified as "Family-friendly Company" since 2010. Applications of women are specifically invited. In the case of similar qualifications, competence, and specific achievements, women will be considered on preferential terms within the framework of the legal possibilities. Handicapped candidates with equivalent qualifications will be given preference. Due to legal requirements working with us is only permitted with complete vaccination against measles.

Universitätsklinikum Münster
Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude D5
48149 Münster