Location: Institute of Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg Contract: 2 years with extension possibilities, begin as soon as possible Salary: Competitive, subject to skills and experience The Nephrogenetics unit headed by Prof. Dr. Matias Simons is recruiting a motivated postdoc to lead research projects in lipid cell biology and metabolism, ideally with the help of the Drosophila model. The mission of the Nephrogenetics unit is to advance the understanding of the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms of inherited kidney disorders as a prelude to improving prevention, diagnosis and treatment of common kidney disease. Currently, we have a major interest in studying lipid metabolism in kidney physiology and pathophysiology. Among other experimental models such as cell culture and mouse, we use Drosophila as a rapid genetic model to study the cell biology as well as organ crosstalk in lipid metabolism, also involving the renal system of the fly. Recent publications include Li et al, Nature Comms, in press ; Dow et al, Nature Reviews Nephrology, 2022 ; Jouandin, Marelja et al, Science, 2022 ; Perez Marti et al, eLife, 2022 ; Marchesin et al, Cell Rep, 2020 ; Bedin et al, J Clin Invest, 2020 ; Goncalves et al, PloS Genetics, 2018 ; Rujano et al, J Exp Med, 2017. For more info on the lab see www.simons-lab.de. Within the framework of an ERC Consolidator Grant, we now offer an exciting opportunity to study lipid metabolism in Drosophila. For this, we invite applications from individuals with a background in molecular cell biology, ideally with Drosophila experience. Prior experience with lipid metabolism research is an advantage but not a prerequisite. The projects will be carried out in a stimulating work environment with scientific collaborations across the Heidelberg life science community, including EMBL and DKFZ. The successful applicant will have good communication and organisational skills and a PhD in a relevant area (or be in the final stages of completion). Candidates are expected to be highly motivated and to work independently with a strong work ethic. There will also be opportunities for gaining mentorship experience via helping to train junior investigators in the group and for carrying out projects to their own related areas of interest. As we are an international lab, proficiency in English language is a requirement. Applications including a cover letter, a detailed CV including a publication list and contacts of up to three referees should be sent as soon as possible to matias.simons@med.uni-heidelberg.de Key words: Lipid metabolism, lipoproteins, endocytosis, lipid droplets, Drosophila, nephrocytes, oenocytes, renal tubules