PhD student position available immediately at the GOETHE-University Frankfurt, Institute of Biochemistry, for up to three years. The project aims at the development and implementation of novel tools to manipulate neurons with light (optogenetics), and to use these tools to analyze sensory neuronal networks in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Neural network activity and induced behaviour will be assayed using automated video analysis, Ca2+ imaging and electrophysiology. For further information, see lab publications (EMBO J (2005) 24: 2566; Curr. Biol. (2005) 15: 2279; EMBO J (2007) 26: 4313; Nature (2007) 446: 633; Nat. Meth. (2008) 5: 895; EMBO J (2009) 28: pp 2636) and visit the lab website:
http://www.biochem.uni-frankfurt.de/index.php?id=8
A diploma or masters degree in Biochemistry, Biology or Chemistry is required. Candidates must have a strong background and interest in the function of the nervous system, and solid experience in molecular biology, biochemistry and cell biology; programming skills (Matlab, LabView) are helpful. Knowledge of C. elegans biology and techniques is mostly welcome, but no strict necessity. Please send applications containing CV, certificates, short description of research experience and interests, and references, no later than April 15th, 2010.
Alexander Gottschalk, PhD, Professor
Goethe-Universität Frankfurt
Institute for Biochemistry, Biocenter N220
Max-von-Laue Strasse 9
D-60438 Frankfurt
Germany
e-mail: a.gottschalk@em.uni-frankfurt.de