Job Description
PhD Student (gn*) Developmental Neuroscience
12859
Posting Start Date:  11/11/26

Fixed-term for 3 years, with the option of extension | Part-time (65%) | Salary according to TV-L E13 | Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics

 

We are UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility.

 

To meet our high standards every day, we are looking forward to your scientific expertise at the Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics. The Galic lab investigates how cells coordinate their shape, polarity, and movement using an interdisciplinary approach that combines cell biology, advanced microscopy, quantitative image analysis, and computational methods.

 

Our research project, “Quantitative Analysis of Neuronal Polarization and Migration”, focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neuronal development in the human cerebral cortex. We aim to understand how extracellular signals regulate intracellular calcium signaling, cytoskeletal rearrangements, and neuronal migration. Using human stem cell-derived neurons, three-dimensional culture systems, and cortical organoids, we investigate how disruptions in these processes contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders, including lissencephaly – ideally with you on board!

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Investigating the molecular mechanisms regulating neuronal polarization and migration during cortical development
  • Analyzing how neurotransmitter receptor composition and localization influence intracellular calcium signaling
  • Examining the role of calcium signaling in cytoskeletal rearrangements and the establishment of neuronal polarity
  • Conducting experiments using human stem cell-derived neurons, three-dimensional culture systems, and cortical organoids
  • Applying advanced fluorescence microscopy and quantitative image analysis to study neuronal development
  • Investigating the contribution of disrupted neuronal polarization and migration to neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Contributing to the independent development and implementation of scientific research ideas

 

REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Master's degree or equivalent qualification in biology, biomedicine, neuroscience, biophysics, or a related discipline
  • Strong interest in developmental neuroscience, cell biology, and the molecular mechanisms of neuronal development
  • Motivation to learn and apply advanced experimental and quantitative research techniques
  • Previous experience in neuronal cell culture, fluorescence microscopy, or quantitative image analysis is an advantage but not required
  • Curiosity, analytical thinking, and enthusiasm for independent scientific research
  • Good English language and communication skills
  • Enjoyment of working in an interdisciplinary and international research environment

 

WE OFFER:

  • Salary according to TV-L E13, 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
  • A wide range of training and professional development opportunities
  • 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, jobrad, company events, cafeteria, and emergency childcare

 

Apply now via our career portal.

Applications should include a cover letter describing research interests and motivation, a current CV with academic transcripts, and contact details for at least two professional references.

Benefits Komponente
BENEFITS:
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Exciting projects
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Further education and training
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Interdisciplinary collaboration
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Be part of the research innovation
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Even more benefits

                                                                                                                                                                                        (*gn=gender neutral)

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▼ Further Information

Information regarding the application process


Equal Opportunities:
Equal opportunities are an integral part of our HR policy. UKM supports the compatibility of career and family life and has been certified as a family-conscious employer since 2010. In principle, part-time employment is possible. In areas where women are underrepresented, they will be given preferential consideration in accordance with statutory provisions, provided they have equal qualifications, aptitude, and professional performance. Applicants with severe disabilities will also be given preferential consideration under the same conditions and within the framework of legal regulations.


Further Information:

  • Due to the legal requirements of the German Measles Protection Act, employment with us is only possible with full vaccination protection against measles.
  • We reserve the right to close the selection process as soon as a suitable candidate has been found.
  • Applications submitted by email or post cannot be considered.
  • Salary according to TV-L. Classification is based on the assigned responsibilities and qualifications. Placement within the pay scale levels is determined according to relevant professional experience.


Notice to Recruitment Agencies:
UKM already cooperates with selected recruitment agencies on the basis of framework agreements. We therefore kindly ask you to refrain from submitting unsolicited offers. Information on tender procedures can generally be found on the NRW procurement platform.

Kontaktinformation
Universitätsklinikum Münster
Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 | 48149 Münster | www.ukm.de