Forscher (Postdoktorand)

Leibniz Universität Hannover WorkFromHome

Stellenbeschreibung:

The fixed-term position is for a duration of 36 months.

Your role

The position is part of the third-party funded project “A novel therapeutic approach to treat craniosynostosis caused by IL11RA mutations.” The aim of this collaborative project is the development and characterization of an in vitro cell culture model of the cranial suture for the development of new siRNA-based therapeutics for the treatment of craniosynostosis. To this end, state-of-the-art stem cell and 3D cell culture technologies as well as single-cell gene expression analyses and 3D imaging techniques will be employed. In connection with this position, the following tasks and areas of responsibility are expected:

You will be jointly responsible for the development and characterization of an in vitro cranial suture model that reflects the in vivo situation as accurately as possible and thus forms the basis for the planned drug testing.
You will use primary stem cells and cell lines to establish and optimize the cell culture model.
You will develop and apply new processes for the scalable production of the required tissue building blocks.
You will independently plan and conduct experiments, analyze results, and generate new insights.
You will present your work at international conferences and prepare publications to share the project results with the global scientific community.
You will establish and apply standardized workflows in the areas of gene expression analysis and 3D image processing.
You will work in a dynamic and highly motivated team to conduct research and jointly prepare research proposals and publications.

Who are we looking for?

The successful candidate must hold a university science degree in the field of biology, biotechnology, life sciences, or a related discipline. In addition, a completed relevant doctorate in one of the above-mentioned subject areas is expected.

In addition, we are looking for a candidate with the following:

Proven experience in the cell culture of adherent stem cells and their analysis (e.g. qPCR, immunohistochemistry, viability assays, phenotyping) is essential.
Experience with one or more 3D cell culture approaches (e.g. spheroids, organoids, hydrogels) is required.
Demonstrated in-depth expertise in stem cell biology and/or tissue engineering and/or biomaterial–cell interactions is expected.
An analytical mindset and the ability to interpret complex data and translate them into meaningful results are expected.
Excellent communication skills in German and English are required.
High motivation, creativity, team spirit, and a strong sense of responsibility are desirable.
Prior experience in flow cytometry, single-cell gene expression analyses and/or 3D imaging techniques, as well as their bioinformatic analysis, or the willingness to further develop skills in these areas, is an advantage.

Equal opportunities and diversity are core values at Leibniz University Hannover. Our goal is to tap into individual potential and open up possibilities. We therefore welcome applications from anyone interested in the position, irrespective of gender, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or ideology, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

We strive towards a balanced and diverse workforce and a reduction in under-representation in accordance with the Lower Saxony Equal Rights Act (Niedersächsisches Gleichberechtigungsgesetz – NGG ). We therefore also welcome applications from women for the above-mentioned position. Preference will be given to equally-qualified candidates with disabilities.

With more than 5.000 employees, Leibniz University Hannover is one of the largest and most attractive employers in the Hannover region. We offer a vibrant interdisciplinary and international working environment, and promote personal and professional development ranging from subject-related skills to leadership and languages.

Part-time employment as well as remote work (mobile work, work from home) can be arranged upon request. We support employees with balancing work and family life, through services such as back-up childcare, childcare during school holidays, and parent-child offices, as well as providing individual advice regarding family responsibilities and caring for dependants.

To promote health and well-being among employees, we offer an extensive sports programme with over 100 different sports, as well as a fitness centre with a sauna and climbing space. Health management measures, such as courses on stress management, good nutrition and relaxation, aim to ensure a healthy workplace.