ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú

The laboratory of Prof. Natalia Kononenko at the University of Cologne (Medical Faculty & CECAD Excellence Cluster) is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to investigate the role of endocytosis in  Purkinje cells and how its dysfunction, leading to Purkinje cell loss, impacts brain-wide motor circuits (see Tolve et al., 2024, doi: 10.1101/2024.06.02.596459).

This project is part of CRC1451 (https://www.crc1451.uni-koeln.de/) and involves advanced mouse models, rabies tracing, chemogenetics, multi-omics, super-resolution microscopy, and miniscope Ca2+ imaging. It offers an excellent opportunity to engage in cutting-edge neurobiology research.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Conduct research in mouse models to investigate how inhibition of endocytosis in Purkinje cells affects information processing in the thalamo-cortical network.
2. Perform experiments in cerebellar organotypic slice cultures using GCaMP6-based calcium imaging and chemogenetics. 
3. Perform stereotactic surgeries and use chemogenetics to manipulate brain motor circuits.
4. Conduct biochemical assays, such as pull-down experiments and proteomic analyses.
5. Maintain accurate lab records and clearly present findings in meetings.

Requirements:

1. Master’s degree in Neuroscience, Cell Biology, or Biochemistry.
2. Experience with techniques such as rodent models of neurodegeneration, primary cell culture, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, image analysis, and biochemical assays.
3. Strong motivation to advance research in neurodegenerative diseases.
4. Proficiency in English.
5. Excellent organizational skills, a proactive attitude, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn.

Our Profile:

Cologne offers a vibrant international academic environment, fostering interdisciplinary interactions with top-tier institutions such as CECAD, the Max Planck Institutes for Aging and Metabolic Research, and the University Hospital of Cologne. As a leading hub for aging research, CECAD provides an outstanding scientific network. The Kononenko lab is part of this network and offers access to state-of-the-art facilities and expertise.

Start Date and Location:
February/March 2025, in Cologne, Germany.

For more information, please visit:

or
.

Your benefits

All social benefits provided by working for the public service: e.g. an annual bonus, payment of benefits .

Application Process:

Please submit a single PDF containing the following:

1. A motivation letter.
2. A CV with contact details for 2–3 references.
3. A short (300-word) summary of a recent publication from Kononenko’s lab, including a research outlook and a proposal for future research on the topic.
Send your application to Prof. Dr. Natalia Kononenko at n.kononenko@uni-koeln.de.