PhD Position (gn*) in Cellular Biophysics at Universitätskl… · Münster

Fixed-term for 3 years | Part-time with 65 % | Salary according to TV-L E13 | Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics

We are UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility.

To meet our high standards every day, we are looking forward to your scientific expertise in the Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics. The Galic lab investigates how cells coordinate their shape, polarity, and movement. Our interdisciplinary research combines state-of-the-art cell biology, advanced microscopy, quantitative image analysis, and computational methods – ideally with you on board!

THE PROJECT:

This project investigates how cells coordinate shape, polarity, and movement, with a particular focus on the curvature-sensitive protein BAIAP2 and its role in neuronal development. Since mutations in BAIAP2 give rise to lissencephaly, a severe neurodevelopmental disorder, this work holds direct relevance for both fundamental and pathological mechanisms of brain development. Our goal is to understand how membrane curvature-dependent BAIAP2 signaling hubs regulate neuronal polarization, migration, and neurite branching. To achieve this, we will establish and characterize human stem cell-derived neurons (iNeurons) as a model system for early neurodevelopmental stages, and conduct 2D and 3D culture experiments, including hydrogel-based systems, in combination with advanced live-cell microscopy. Quantitative image analysis and machine learning-based approaches will be employed to track cell morphology and migration. Ultimately, we aim to develop numerical models of curvature-dependent signaling circuits and validate them against experimental data.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Investigating the role of BAIAP2 signaling hubs in neuronal polarization, migration, and neurite branching
• Establishing and characterizing human stem cell-derived neurons (iNeurons) as a model for early neuronal development
• Performing 2D and 3D neuronal cell culture experiments, including hydrogel-based systems
• Applying advanced live-cell fluorescence microscopy to investigate neuronal morphology and dynamics
• Using quantitative image analysis and machine learning-based approaches to track cell morphology and migration
• Developing numerical models of curvature-dependent signaling circuits
• Validating computational models against experimental data to better understand the mechanisms underlying neuronal development

REQUIREMENTS:

• Master's degree or equivalent qualification in biology, biomedicine, neuroscience, biophysics, or a related discipline
• Strong interest in cellular biophysics and the molecular mechanisms underlying neuronal development
• Motivation to conduct independent scientific research and contribute to an interdisciplinary project
• Willingness to learn and apply experimental and computational research methods
• Good English language and communication skills
• Curiosity, enthusiasm, and the ability to work collaboratively in an international research environment
• Previous experience in cell biology, neuronal cell culture, fluorescence microscopy, or quantitative image analysis is an advantage but not required

WE OFFER:

• Salary according to TV-L E13, extra annual payment, and company pension plan (VBL)
• 30 days of vacation per year, plus two additional days off on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve
• A wide range of training and professional development opportunities
• A respectful and appreciative work environment within a diverse team
• Support and advisory services for health and work-life balance
• Additional benefits such as sports programs, job ticket, jobrad, company events, cafeteria, and emergency childcare

Apply now via our career portal.

Applications should include a cover letter outlining research interests and motivation, a current CV with academic transcripts, and contact details for at least two professional references. Please quote the Job ID in your application.