At the University Hospital of Regensburg (Germany), within a multi-centre cooperative project financed by the German Ministry of Research and Education (BMBF “OptiMD”), we offer a doctoral position in the field of neuro-glia pharmacology in animal models of depression. In a truly translational approach, the project aims at characterizing whether candidate genes associated with major depressive disorder in humans may be relevant for changes in glia cells (i.e. astrocytes and microglia cells) which might in turn affect plasticity and/or activity of neuronal networks. To this aim, we use primary cell cultures and in vivo models (i.e. depressive-like mice and rats) and we apply several biochemical (co-IP, Western blot, ELISA), biomolecular (qPCR, RNAi, mutagenesis) and histological (in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry) methods. A further goal is to examine the influence of novel pharmacologic treatments on the epigenome and genome of glia cells to identify the more effective treatments to rescue disease phenotypes. 

Applicants are expected to have a master or diploma degree in biology or a related research discipline. Previous experience with immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, preparation and culture of primary cell culture and work with living animals is mandatory. Knowledge of behavioural testing, stereotactic surgery, stereology and biochemical methods (ELISA, western blotting) would be highly appreciated. A basic knowledge of GraphPad, Photoshop and ImageJ analysis tools would be an advantage, but not strictly necessary.
A fluent knowledge of English language is required, whereas knowledge of German is optional.
Successful candidates are expected to work independently, display team work skills and a high degree of flexibility. 

Salary and contract will be according to German TVöD (E13, 65%). The University of Regensburg is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to support Family&Career balance.

Dr. Barbara Di Benedetto
University of Regensburg
Franz-Joseph-Allee Strasse 11
93053 Regensburg
Germany
Phone +49-941-944 8988
Email [email protected]

http://www.uni-regensburg.de/medizin/psychiatrie-psychotherapie/forschung/molekulare-neuroplastizitaet/