PhD position (m/f/x) Behavioral Neuroscience

Stellenbeschreibung:

PhD position (m/f/x) Behavioral Neuroscience

Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology: Department of Zoology and Neurobiology Behavioral Neuroscience. In order to fill a fixed‑term position in part‑time hours/week = 75%) starting , we are looking for 1 candidate.

The research group Behavioral Neuroscience investigates the multifaceted functions of the cerebellum beyond its classical role in motor control, with a particular focus on neurological and psychiatric disorders. By developing and studying transgenic mouse models of episodic and spinocerebellar ataxias, the team explores how specific cell types, signaling pathways, and molecular mechanisms contribute to disease progression. These studies aim to uncover targets for innovative therapeutic interventions. The group is also interested in the cerebellum’s involvement in emotional and cognitive processes, especially in the regulation of fear and anxiety. Using a combination of genetic, optogenetic, and pharmacological approaches, they dissect the contributions of distinct neuronal populations and brain circuits, thereby providing new insights into how the cerebellum shapes and contributes to both behavior and pathology. The proposed project focuses on the cerebellar contributions to fear extinction and the cerebello‑cortical networks underlying the control of fear extinction from the cerebellum.

As a research assistant (m/f/x), you will independently and reliably prepare and carry out experiments, analyse the results and…

Scope: part‑time
Duration: fixed‑term, 36 months
Start:
Apply by:

Your tasks:

Molecular biology: Cloning of various plasmids and sensors
Cell culture: virus production, assays
Biochemical assays: Co‑immunoprecipitation, Western blotting
Fluorescence microscopy: and analysis of fluorescent images; performing calcium imaging
Animal experiments: Conducting and analysing behavioural experiments in mice; organ extraction followed by histological analyses (IHC, qPCR, Western blot)
Electrophysiology: In‑vivo recordings and analysis of Purkinje cell, calcium and monoaminergic activity
Supervision: Support in supervising bachelor’s and master’s theses, as well as participation in seminars, conferences, journal club, lab meeting and specialised, advanced training modules

Your profile:

We are looking for a candidate (m/f/x) with an excellent master’s degree in biology, neurobiology/neuroscience or a comparable field. Ideally, the candidate:

Excellent English language skills
Strong background in neuroscience
Experience in planning and conducting animal surgeries, in‑vivo imaging and behaviour experiments
Experience in histological techniques
Experience in animal experimentation (FELASA B certification required; can be obtained at the RUB)
Strong skills in project planning and collaborative research

We are looking for an open‑minded and scientifically enthusiastic individual who stands out through teamwork, independence, accuracy, and excellent academic achievements. This individual should be willing to learn and establish new methods and give presentations in English.

We offer:

Challenging and varied tasks with a high degree of personal responsibility
Employment at one of Germany’s largest universities within the University Alliance Ruhr
Comprehensive on‑board training
Interdisciplinary collaboration within an international, committee and open‑minded team
Workshops, conferences, symposia, and journal clubs for interdisciplinary exchange
Support in balancing family and career (childcare placement, holiday programmes, mobile childcare facilities)
Extensive opportunities for professional development and continuing education
A diverse range of sports activities with around 100 sports and the university’s own fitness studio

Further information:

The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV‑L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV‑L.

Further information can be found at: (in German).

The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.

If the position is funded by third‑party funds the employee has no teaching obligation.

A qualified application is expected.

RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.

German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF).

The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.