The University of Marburg, founded in 1527, offers a variety of excellent programs of study for around 22,000 students and confronts the important topics of our time through excellent research across a broad spectrum of sciences.
The Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pharmacology, research group of Prof. Dr. Thomas Worzfeld, is currently accepting applications for a PhD in Neuroepithelial Circuits .
The position is offered for a period of 3 years. The starting date is as soon as possible. The salary and benefits commensurate with a public service position in the state Hesse, Germany (TV-H E 13, 65 %).
The Institute of Pharmacology focuses on deciphering the molecular mechanisms that control regeneration as well as tumor initiation and progression in epithelial tissues (). The PhD project is funded by the German Research Foundation as part of the Priority Programme SPP 2493 ( The position is available in the exciting and rapidly emerging field of neuroepithelial circuits, and aims at unraveling the molecular programmes and functional relevance of communication pathways between epithelial cells and neurons in the intestine. The applied techniques will include molecular and cellular biology methods (e.g. neuroepithelial co-cultures, organoid cultures), advanced imaging (e.g. multiphoton microscopy, confocal microscopy), biochemical methods (protein purification, proteomics) as well as analyses of genetically-modified mice.
Tasks:
* to actively pursue the DFG-funded project with the aim of characterizing the molecular and functional mechanisms of neuro-epithelial circuits in the intestine
* to contribute to the preparation of scientific publications and presentations
Profile:
* M.Sc. degree or equivalent in a Life Sciences subject
* high motivation, team spirit and creativity
* very good written and spoken English skills
* experience in cellular and molecular biology, primary neuronal cultures, tissue explant cultures, advanced imaging, biochemical methods and animal experiments would be advantageous
We offer:
* dynamic scientific environment in an international and motivated team
* campus with modern state-of-the-art infrastructure
* access to international research networks
* dedicated and structured supervision
* comprehensive training and mentoring program
* free use of public transportation in Hessen (“state ticket”)
We actively support the professional development of junior researchers by the offers of Marburg Research Academy (MARA), the International Office and the Higher Education Didactics Office.
Please apply by September 21st, 2025, using the application link.
The position is limited to a time period deemed adequate for the completion of a doctoral degree. The limitation complies to § 2, 1 WissZeitVG. Disposition to own scientific qualification is expected. We support women and strongly encourage them to apply. In areas where women are underrepresented, female applicants will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. As a certified family-friendly university, we support our employees in balancing family and career. A reduction of working time is possible. Applicants with a disability as described in SGB IX (§ 2 Abs. 2, 3) will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. Application and interview costs cannot be refunded.