Ref.-Nr. 500-2026
Third-party funding
In the Institute of Physiology (Director: Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Volkmar Leßmann) of the Medical Faculty at the Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, a position is available immediately for a Research Associate/ Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) fixed-term position.
We are offering a postdoctoral position for a candidate with experience either in electrophysiology of synaptic plasticity in acute mouse brain slices or in the generation of neuronally differentiated induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from murine and human fibroblasts. The project aims to investigate the effects of anti-inflammatory drugs on synaptic deficits in Alzheimer's disease using brain slices from an Alzheimer's mouse model and neuronal network cultures derived from iPSCs.
Project title:
Effects of anti-inflammatory drugs on deficits in synaptic plasticity and learning and memory in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease
Our research group investigates the cellular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and the resulting learning processes in mouse models using electrophysiological techniques, high-resolution fluorescence microscopy, and behavioral experiments.
Over the past years, we have demonstrated the beneficial effects of the sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor (S1PR) modulators Fingolimod and Ozanimod, both approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, on synaptic transmission, spine density, and learning deficits in Alzheimer's mouse models (Kartalou et al., 2020; Leßmann et al., 2023; Fritz et al., 2026).
Within our EFRE-funded project 'EMTAD', we are now investigating the molecular mechanisms of S1PR modulators and additional anti-inflammatory compounds in Alzheimer's disease models (cell culture and in vivo). Promising drug candidates will subsequently be evaluated in clinical studies steered by another EMTAD subproject.
- PhD in Neuroscience, Biology, Physiology, Biochemistry, or a related field, with at least one first-author publication in a peer-reviewed journal
- Advanced expertise and practical experience:
- either in electrophysiology, neurophysiology, and synaptic plasticity (LTP, LTD, STDP) in acute brain slices,
- or in the generation, long-term culture, and cellular characterization of neuronally differentiated iPSC cultures or organoids
- Experience with modern fluorescence microscopy techniques (confocal and two-photon imaging) in live brain slices and cultured cells
- Solid knowledge of modern cell and molecular biology techniques
- Experience in supervising Master's and PhD research projects
- Excellent written and spoken English
- Independent, structured, and responsible working style with excellent teamwork and communication skills
We offer an inspiring research environment with long-standing expertise in BDNF and synaptic plasticity research (e.g. Khodaie et al., iScience 2024; Cepeda-Prado et al., Cerebral Cortex 2022; Groessl et al., Nature Neuroscience 2018). In addition to developing treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease, our international team investigates:
- Secretion and synaptic actions of neuropeptides and neuromodulators (e.g. BDNF and dopamine) in the mammalian CNS
- Dopamine- and BDNF-dependent regulation of hippocampus-, amygdala-, and neocortex-mediated behavior in mice
Furthermore:
- a wide range of internal and external training and professional development opportunities
- Help protect the environment and enjoy discounted public transportation through a job ticket.
- In addition, we offer a diverse range of sports and relaxation activities as part of our workplace health promotion program.
- Onboarding: At the start of your employment, you will participate in our orientation program, where you will receive important information and training sessions.
- Salary: The salary group E13 according to “Tarifvertrag für den Öffentlichen Dienst der Länder” awaits you.
- Appointment: The position is full-time and funded through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF/EFRE) project 'Establishment of Anti-inflammatory Drugs for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease (EMTAD)'.
Funding is available until 30 September 2028. The contract duration depends on the appointment date and project funding.
- Work Location: Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Faculty of Medicine, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg
- Application Deadline: 07/31/2026.
For further information, please contact Ms Susan Böse (Institute of Physiology Office) at +49 391 67 15885.
Preferred application format: online submission including a cover letter, CV, and relevant certificates.
[email protected] - (Reference number: 500-2026)
Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg
Faculty of Medicine
Personnel Division - Recruiting
Reference number: 500-2026
Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg
If you have an international vocational or academic qualification, your application must be accompanied by a certificate evaluation from the Central Office for Foreign Education (KMK). If you do not yet have a certificate evaluation, you will need to apply for one if your application is successful.
The Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. It therefore encourages women with according qualifications to apply. Applications from persons with a certified serious disability will be given preferential consideration in the event of equal suitability and qualification
