Application deadline: April 30, 2026
The Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine at University Hospital Würzburg will offer one PhD or postdoc position (open to m/f/div applicants). The position is limited to two or three years respectively. The salary is based on the TV-L.
PhD or Postdoc Position (m/f/div) We offer
The PhD or postdoc will cover the topic presynaptic and peripheral plasticity of nociceptors in pain resolution (DOI: 10.7554/eLife.56738; DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38575-6; DOI: 10.1016/j.bja.2025.05.046). The project employs high resolution imaging to analyze skin and spinal cord plasticity in preclinical models and patient samples. You will find a highly motivated team. Open communication culture is what sets us apart. You will be associated with the doctoral program of the Gradual School of Life Sciences (). The program is characterized by structured onboarding at an excellently equipped workplace and jointly developed milestones and career paths. In addition to a specialized training program, you can expect skills training and opportunities for co-determination.
As a family-friendly research group, part-time work and working from home as well as support in caring for children or relatives are a matter of course for us. If necessary, we will support you in finding accommodation and childcare. Disabled people will be given priority if they are equally qualified.
Your Tasks
The clinical research group KFO5001 ResolvePAIN of the German Research Foundation (DFG) is starting the second funding period. It is conducted by clinical and basic scientists from the University Hospital Würzburg, University of Leipzig, and Charité. Principal investigators are based in neurology, anesthesiology, psychiatry, neuroradiology, internal medicine, physiology, and clinical neurobiology.
Resolution of and recovery from neuropathic pain depend on mechanisms such as resolution of inflammation, synaptic reorganization, and restoration of neuronal pathways. In ResolvePAIN, we aim to investigate recovery patterns and mechanisms of pain resolution in the peripheral somatosensory and in connection with the central nervous system. We will utilize a combined translational approach involving clinical, preclinical, and basic sciences as well as studies on CNS control over the peripheral processes ().
Your Profile
Do you fit in with us?
You are an open-minded, enthusiastic, committed, and research-loving scientist (master’s degree in neurosciences, biomedicine, biochemistry, etc.or PhD in nerosciences [pain research]) having completed your studies with excellent results. You thrive in international teams and translational research. We expect you to work independently with a lively commitment within the KFO5001 show resilience and flexibility. Background in neurosciences, pain research, high resolution imaging, or animal behavior is of high advantage.
We look forward to receiving your application!
We would like to get to know you! Please send your application (including motivation letter, curriculum vitae, academic references, grades) by April 30, 2026.
Further information can be obtained by the relevant project leaders or the scientific director Prof. Dr. Heike Rittner, Anesthesiology (phone: +49 9931 201-30557 or by e-mail).
This is what you can look forward to
* challenging, diverse, and evolving area of responsibility
* attractive salary according to the TV-L including annual special payment
* training and continuing education
* retirement pension plan
* company daycare center with extended opening hours
* company sports program
* flexible working hours
* jobBike
* corporate benefits
Become part of the team: Apply now! Apply now!
Univ.-Prof. Dr. med. Heike Rittner
Head of ZiS
Phone: +49 931 201-30557
In the case of a university degree from a non-EU country, a long version of the certificate evaluation from the Central Office for Foreign Education is required.
Remuneration is in accordance with the relevant collective agreements. Severely disabled applicants will be given preference if they are otherwise equally qualified.