A three-year PhD position in Cellular Neuroscience is available in the laboratory of Prof. Harald Luksch under the supervision of Dr. Stefan Weigel at the Chair of Zoology of the Technische Universität München, Munich.

Scientific background:

Multimodal integration of different sensory information is essential for survival as it improves speed and reliability of target selection and the appropriate responses. In birds, the optic tectum integrates all spatial sensory information into a multimodal space map. However, little is known about how multimodal integration is achieved on the cellular and subcellular level in general.
The successful candidate will investigate multimodal integration on the subcellular level in acute brain slices of the chicken. The work shall focus on a particular type of neuron and analyze the physiology, anatomy and integration in the neuronal networks of the midbrain. The data gathered here will be validated in a model.

Methodology:

Our lab provides state-of-the-art electrophysiological and histological methods. Primarily, the successful applicant will employ whole-cell patch-clamp technique in combination with optical imaging techniques. In addition, the candidate will use histochemical methods and modelling.

Requirements:

We seek a highly motivated PhD student. The candidate should have a strong interest in cellular neuroscience and electrophysiology. Previous work with isolated tissue and knowledge of electrophysiological techniques is advantageous. A working knowledge in molecular techniques (plasmids) or programming (Matlab) is beneficial.
We expect the candidate to be open minded and enthusiastic about working on scientific questions. A good level in English is required.
The position is available for three years and shall be filled as soon as possible. The project is funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG). The position is paid according to the public service pay scale (TVL-13, 65%).

Contact Information

Dr. Stefan Weigel
Technische Universität München
Zoology
Liesel-Beckmann Straße 4
85354 Freising
Germany
Phone+4 98161712807
Email [email protected]
Website zoologie.wzw.tum.de