Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m) : Berlin, Germany

The German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) is a unique non-university research center which is dedicated to the subject dementia and all its areas, as well as other neurodegenerative diseases. The center compasses the full spectrum of fundamental research through population sciences to health care research. The DZNE stands for excellence in research and science management, translation of scientific results into practice, interdisciplinarity and internationalization. It is a research center within the Helmholtz Organization of German research centers. With over 1,000 employees from 55 nations, spread over 10 sites, the DZNE is one of the national and international leading research centers in its research field.

The DZNE in Berlin is looking for a

Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m)

Code 10009/2018/7

A position for a talented and highly motivated postdoctoral researcher is available in the Junior Research Group “Protein Actions in Neurodegeneration” led by Dr. Susanne Wegmann starting from October 2018.

Your tasks
We are looking for an open-minded, enthusiastic, and respectful Postdoc for our teamwork-oriented new research group. You are expected to perform experimental bench work, perform data analysis, and publish the work performed; excellent knowledge of the English language and good communication skills are expected as well. As a Postdoctoral fellow in our group, you will be involved in projects regarding the molecular and cellular mechanisms behind neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's and other diseases. The projects usually tackle long-standing unsolved questions, or try to understand “unusual functions” of key players that lead to neurotoxicity in Alzheimer's disease, tauopathies, or other neurodegenerative settings.

Most of our projects are investigating the role and misfunction of the tau protein, but also other protein candidates are of interest – and different projects are currently available, of which some have a strong biophysical/biochemical background (e.g. phase separation, protein modifications, protein aggregation), some are more cell biological/biochemical oriented (e.g. gene expression, protein modifications, neurotoxicity), and some involve in vivo work (e.g. tissue processing, mouse work, neuronal vulnerability). You will conduct your own research project, but also collaborate with PhD and postdoctoral researchers, as well as international partners. The goal is to publish our work in outstanding scientific journals.

In general, our research is based on very interdisciplinary approaches, so that experiences in different techniques is helpful, but even more the will to learn and teach new methods is necessary. Candidates should be familiar with the standard methods in protein biochemistry, basic cell culture, and high quality fluorescence microscopy; for some projects, experience and knowledge about protein expression and biophysical techniques and/or dealing with rodent and human tissue is useful as well.

The work will include:

• Working independently on scientific projects
• Assist with mentoring PhD students
• Different applications of Light Microscopy
• Protein biochemistry, molecular biology, cell culture, brain tissue work

The Postdoctoral fellow candidates should be highly motivated to work on projects regarding different molecular and cellular questions in neurodegeneration. They are expected to identify directions for their future scientific research, build a path toward scientific independence, and play a key role in supervising junior members in the group. While the funding is available from the host laboratory, candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for independent research funding or fellowships via national and/or international funding sources to advance their own career.

Your profile

• Have the ability to work independently with standard techniques of cell biology, immunology, biochemistry and molecular biology
• Have background and expertise in cellular and molecular protein and cell- or neurobiology
• Establish new techniques, interpret and discuss experiments
• Be interested in implementing new methods and improving current protocols
• Contribute in scientific ideas and bring in own expertise
• Have excellent organizational skills and fluency in English
• Have strong communication and critical thinking skills, as well as a dedication to teamwork and collaboration
• Critically contribute to writing of manuscripts and grant proposals
• Have successfully completed your university studies with a Ph.D., M.D., or M.D./Ph.D. degree
• Have a track record of relevant publications in peer-reviewed journals

We offer

• Working in an international, highly interactive environment
• Opportunity to utilize state-of-the-art equipment and facilities
• A full-time appointment of initially 2 years starting from October 2018 with the possibility of an extension
• Employment, payment, and social benefits are determined by the Public
• Sector Collective Agreement (Tarifvertrag für den öffentlichen Dienst – TvöD Bund)

Applications should contain the following documents (in English):

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae
• A cover letter with research interest
• At least 3 reference letters

You will obtain special skills and knowledge for your scientific qualification at DZNE. The DZNE is an equal opportunity employer. It is committed to employing disabled individuals and especially encourages them to apply.

Please apply via the following link: https://jobs.dzne.de/en/jobs/10211/form