The
Postdoc and a PhD Student Position (f/m/d)
to join its international team exploring the cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration.
Operational area: Institute of Neuroanatomy
Working hours: Postdoc Full-time 100% (38,5 hours/week)/ PhD Student Position 65% (25,03 hours/week)
Duration/Term of employment: the position is limited till 31.07.2027 in accordance with the WissZeitVG with the option of prolongation.
Start date: 01.08.2026
Remuneration/Rates: EG 13 (TV-L)
About the Lab
We focus on uncovering the early drivers of human neurodegenerative diseases with a strong translational emphasis. The lab extensively uses human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)–based models, differentiating hiPSCs into disease-relevant neuronal and glial cell types, organoids, and assembloids to study synaptic development, maintenance, and degeneration. Research integrates advanced imaging, multi-omics, functional assays, and patient-derived samples to dissect mechanisms underlying neuronal vulnerability and to identify targets for therapeutic intervention.
Postdoctoral Researcher
Your responsabilities:
* Lead and contribute to cutting-edge research on neurodegeneration using hiPSC-based neuronal and organoid models
* Further develop the lab’s “trauma-in-a-dish” model based on hiPSC-derived organoids
* Apply and advance cell culture, microscopy, and multi-omics methodologies
* Integrate functional assays (e.g. neuronal activity and imaging) with molecular analyses
* Apply for internal and external research funding
* Contribute to the supervision of students and the scientific life of the institute
* Participate in teaching human anatomy to medical and dental students as part of the institute’s curriculum
Qualifications:
* PhD in neuroscience, cell biology, molecular biology, or a related field
* Strong experience in at least one of the following topics: hiPSC culture and differentiation, microscopy, and omics technologies
* Excellent communication and teamwork skills
PhD Student
Your responsabilities:
* Conduct a doctoral research project within the Catanese lab focused on human-relevant models of neurodegeneration. Main topic of the doctoral work will be the investigation of the pathomechanisms linked to novel, rare ALS variants
* The main topic of the PhD project will be the investigation of pathomechanisms associated with novel, rare ALS variants
* Use hiPSC-based models, microscopy, and omics approaches to study mechanisms of neuronal dysfunction
* Analyze and interpret experimental data and present results at scientific meetings and conferences
* Participate in a structured doctoral training environment with national and international collaborations
Qualifications:
* Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
* Hands-on experience in cell culture, imaging, and omics preferred
* High motivation for experimental research and scientific curiosity
* Strong motivation for scientific research and academic growth
Why choose us?
We offer…
* Employment according to the German public service pay scale (TV-L), commensurate with qualifications and experience
* Secure contracts with transparent salary structures
* A stimulating international research environment with modern infrastructure
* Support for work–life balance and family-friendly policies
* Access to continuing education and professional development programs
* Benefits such as public transport subsidies, employee discounts, and institutional support services
* Structured onboarding and integration support for international applicants