Molekulare Neurologie
25.025 Stunden
auf 32 Monate befristet
ab 01.09.2026
Eingruppierung gemäß TV-L
Bewerbungsfrist 31.07.2026
Universitätsklinikum Erlangen
Molekulare Neurologie
Dr. Patrick Süß
Schwabachanlage 6
91054 Erlangen
Ansprechperson bei Fragen
Dr. Patrick Süß
Facharzt/ Clinician Scientist
Telefon: 09131 85-39324
Naturwissenschaftlicher Doktorand / PhD position (m/f/d) “CNS border-associated immune cells mediate gut-brain crosstalk in Parkinson’s Disease”
Veröffentlicht seit: 15.07.2026
Job-Nr.: 13373
Ansprechperson bei Fragen
Dr. Patrick Süß
Facharzt/ Clinician Scientist
Telefon: 09131 85-39324
Anschrift
Universitätsklinikum Erlangen
Molekulare Neurologie
Dr. Patrick Süß
Schwabachanlage 6
91054 Erlangen
Naturwissenschaftlicher Doktorand / PhD position (m/f/d) “CNS border-associated immune cells mediate gut-brain crosstalk in Parkinson’s Disease”
Veröffentlicht seit: 15.07.2026
Job-Nr.: 13373
Universitätsklinikum Erlangen
Molekulare Neurologie
Dr. Patrick Süß
Schwabachanlage 6
91054 Erlangen
Ansprechperson bei Fragen
Dr. Patrick Süß
Facharzt/ Clinician Scientist
Telefon: 09131 85-39324
Klingt spannend?
Das sind wir:
The research group “Systemic immunology of neurodegenerative diseases” of Patrick Süß is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate (65% position, starting as soon as possible). The position is embedded in the project “CNS border-associated immune cells mediate gut-brain crosstalk in Parkinson’s Disease”.
The overarching aim of this project is to investigate CNS borders, particularly the meninges and the perivascular niche, in sensing, processing, and propagating microbial and inflammatory signals from the gut to contribute to the onset and progression of Parkinson’s Disease (PD). The position is funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR).
Project background:
Disease mechanisms underlying PD remain insufficiently understood and causal therapies are lacking. Peripheral inflammation, particularly in the gut, was shown to foster PD development, yet how gut-derived inflammation is propagated across central nervous system (CNS) borders is unknown. In this project, we will determine the role of resident and blood-derived myeloid cells in meningeal and perivascular immune-brain interfaces as mediators of gut-immune-brain communication in PD by in-depth structural analysis and integrated -omics approaches with the aim to identify novel targets for immunomedicine at highly specialized and strategically localized immune-brain interfaces.
Your tasks:
Working with preclinical murine models, including functional assessments
Immunohistochemical analyses of murine samples and human post-mortem brain tissue
Preparation, execution and evaluation of Multi-OMIC data (Spatial transcriptomics, Metabolomics, Imaging)
The successful candidate will work within a supportive research environment and will be assisted by additional PhD students and technical staff.
To be included in your application:
(1) Letter of motivation
(2) Curriculum vitae
(3) Transcript of Records
(4) Summary of Research Experience and Master Project
(5) List of publications
(6) Two names/ contacts for references
Comment:
The position is offered on a first fixed-term basis until April 30, 2027, with the possibility of 2 years extension.
Essential qualifications:
Diploma or Master’s degree in Molecular Medicine, Biology, or a related field
Proficiency in English (written and spoken)
High motivation, intellectual curiosity, and enthusiasm for research
Critical and independent thinking
Strong team spirit and willingness to contribute to collaborative research projects
Strong interest in neuroscience, neuroimmunology, and neurodegeneration
Desirable additional experience:
Experience with immunohistochemistry, fluorescence and confocal laser microscopy, image analysis
Experience in bioinformatic analysis of transcriptomic and metabolomic datasets
Experience with preclinical in vivo models
We offer:
A vibrant, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research environment at the interface of neuroscience, immunology, and gastroenterology
Careful and qualified training
State-of-the-art research facilities in the Department of Molecular Neurology, including access to core facilities for cell sorting and next-generation sequencing
Optional structured training and mentoring within the DFG-funded Clinical Research Unit (CRU 5024) "Immune Checkpoints of Gut–Brain Communication in Inflammatory and Neurodegenerative Diseases (GB.com)" is strongly encouraged
A secure, crisis-resistant position with all the benefits of a collective bargaining agreement in the public sector, including supplementary pension coverage through the Federal and State Pension Institution (VBL), as a system-relevant employer
An interesting role in a motivated and open-minded team
Thorough and well-structured onboarding and training
A comprehensive workplace health promotion program
Intended classification and salary grade in accordance with the Collective Agreement for Public Service Employees of the German States (TV-L), depending on qualifications and personal requirements
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