The Gottschalk lab at Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany, immediately seeks a PhD student (initially for 2 years, with the option of extension, at 65% E13, TV-G-U), to work on a project to study higher order control of C. elegans locomotion behavior using optogenetics. The project will include neuronal activity imaging in freely behaving animals, as well as generation of novel optogenetic tools. It is embedded within research in the Forschergruppe 1279 (http://www.for1279.de/) and the Cluster of Excellence Frankfurt (http://www.cef-mc.de). Information about the Gottschalk lab can be found here (Molecular Membrane Biology and Neurobiology).
Prerequisites for the position are first of all an enthusiasm in basic research in systems neurobiology, a pro-active style of working, and ability to think independently. Furthermore, a solid background in molecular, cellular and behavioral neuroscience, as well as hands-on experience in molecular biology is expected. Ideally, you have previous experience in imaging techniques and in programming scripts in Matlab or Mathematica, as well as in LabView. Experience in working with C. elegans is beneficial, but not a must. An MSc or Diploma in Neurobiology, Biology, Biochemistry or Molecular Biology is required.
Please send applications with the usual documents, a letter of motivation, and addresses of three references by e-mail, until the 16th October 2014 to: a.gottschalk@em.uni-frankfurt.de