Postdoc and a PhD Student Position (f/m/d)

The

Postdoc and a PhD Student Position (f/m/d)

to join its international team exploring the cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration.

Operational area: Institute of Neuroanatomy
Working hours : Postdoc Full-time 100% (38,5 hours/week)/ PhD Student Position 65% (25,03 hours/week)
Duration/Term of employment: the position is limited till in accordance with the WissZeitVG with the option of prolongation.
Start date:
Remuneration/Rates: EG 13 (TV-L)

About the Lab

We focus on uncovering the early drivers of human neurodegenerative diseases with a strong translational emphasis. The lab extensively uses human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)–based models , differentiating hiPSCs into disease-relevant neuronal and glial cell types, organoids, and assembloids to study synaptic development, maintenance, and degeneration. Research integrates advanced imaging, multi-omics, functional assays , and patient-derived samples to dissect mechanisms underlying neuronal vulnerability and to identify targets for therapeutic intervention.

Postdoctoral Researcher

Your responsabilities:

• Lead and contribute to cutting-edge research on neurodegeneration using hiPSC-based neuronal and organoid models
• Further develop the lab’s “trauma-in-a-dish” model based on hiPSC-derived organoids
• Apply and advance cell culture, microscopy, and multi-omics methodologies
• Integrate functional assays (e.g. neuronal activity and imaging) with molecular analyses
• Apply for internal and external research funding
• Contribute to the supervision of students and the scientific life of the institute
• Participate in teaching human anatomy to medical and dental students as part of the institute’s curriculum

Qualifications:

• PhD in neuroscience, cell biology, molecular biology, or a related field
• Strong experience in at least one of the following topics: hiPSC culture and differentiation, microscopy, and omics technologies
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills

PhD Student 

Your responsabilities:

• Conduct a doctoral research project within the Catanese lab focused on human-relevant models of neurodegeneration. Main topic of the doctoral work will be the investigation of the pathomechanisms linked to novel, rare ALS variants
• The main topic of the PhD project will be the investigation of pathomechanisms associated with novel, rare ALS variants
• Use hiPSC-based models, microscopy, and omics approaches to study mechanisms of neuronal dysfunction
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and present results at scientific meetings and conferences
• Participate in a structured doctoral training environment with national and international collaborations

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
• Hands-on experience in cell culture, imaging, and omics preferred
• High motivation for experimental research and scientific curiosity
• Strong motivation for scientific research and academic growth

Why choose us?

We offer…

• Employment according to the German public service pay scale (TV-L), commensurate with qualifications and experience
• Secure contracts with transparent salary structures
• A stimulating international research environment with modern infrastructure
• Support for work–life balance and family-friendly policies
• Access to continuing education and professional development programs
• Benefits such as public transport subsidies, employee discounts, and institutional support services
• Structured onboarding and integration support for international applicants