Postdoc (f/m/x) - Beta Cell Cilia Research
Full time, close to full time39 hrs/week
Dresden
We are Helmholtz Munich. In a rapidly changing world, we discover breakthrough solutions for better health.
Our research is focused within the areas of metabolic health/diabetes, environmental health, molecular targets and therapies, cell programming and repair, bioengineering, and computational health. We particularly excel in the fields of basic research, bioengineering, artificial intelligence, and technological development.
Through this research, we build the foundations for medical innovation. Together with our partners, we seek to accelerate the transfer of our research, so that laboratory ideas can reach society and improve people’s quality of life at the fastest rate possible.
This is what drives us. Why not join us and make a difference?
The Paul Langerhans Institute Dresden (PLID) is a satellite institute of Helmholtz Munich at the University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine “Carl Gustav Carus” of TU Dresden and founding partner of the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), which is funded by the German Ministry for Education and Research (BMBF). The DZD itself combines experts from all areas of diabetes research, so that basic research, epidemiology, translational research and clinical application deeply interconnect. Research focus of the PLID is the production and protection of the pancreatic islet beta cells for the prevention and therapy of all forms of diabetes.
We are looking for a person with expertise in cell biology and imaging to conduct a project on the characterization of the recently discovered beta cell axo-ciliary synapses in health and diabetes. The project will include molecular biology techniques as well as cutting-edge imaging to investigate the influence of these contacts on beta cell function with the final goal to elucidate their potential role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The position is to be filled as of January 01, 2025.
"We believe that excellent research requires a range of different perspectives. Diverse teams reach better solutions and are more innovative in their research topics.
Establishing our Diversity Management Strategy demonstrates our commitment to ensuring an appreciative company culture based on mutual respect. We are also implementing diversity-sensitive processes throughout our whole organization."
Your tasks
- Molecular characterization of axo-ciliary synapses in mouse islet cells
- Establishment of an ex vivo islet cell-neuron culture system
- Functional characterization of beta cell axo-ciliary synapses using fluorescent sensors
- Investigation of beta cell axo-ciliary synapses in health and type 2 diabetes
- Statistical analysis of collected data and preparation of publications
Your profile
- Excellent master and doctoral degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, or another biological/medical field
- Experience in cell culture and molecular biology laboratory work
- Experience in statistical data analysis with R, Python or similar software preferred
- High motivation, flexibility and willingness for interdisciplinary collaboration
Desirable qualifications
- Expertise in fluorescent imaging techniques (live-cell imaging, super resolution)
- Experience with insulin producing cell lines or primary beta cells
Benefits
- Career Development: Postdoc program, scientific training & career center with tailored offers
- Scientific Resources: State-of-the-art infrastruture and Core Facilities
- Recreation: 30 days annual leave, flexi days, plus public holidays
- International Staff Service: Support with the relocation and integration process in Germany
- Health Promotion: Sports, company doctor, mental health initiatives
Since 2005, we hold the TOTAL E-QUALITY award for exemplary action in the sense of an equal-opportunity organizational culture.
Helmholtz Munich is actively committed to diversity and inclusion in practice and is sustainably committed to equality.
The Diversity Charter has set itself the goal of promoting diversity in the world of work. By signing the charter, we commit ourselves to create an appreciative working environment for all employees.
If you fulfil all the requirements, you may be eligible for a salary grade of up to E 13. Social benefits are based on the Collective Wage Agreement for Public-Sector Employees (TVöD). The position has an (initial) fixed term of 2 years but may be extended under certain circumstances.
We are committed to promoting a culture of diversity and welcome applications from talented people regardless of gender, cultural background, nationality, ethnicity, sexual identity, physical abilities, religion or age. Qualified applicants with physical disabilities will be given preference.
If you have obtained a university degree abroad, we will require further documents from you regarding the comparability of your degree. Please request the Statement of Comparability for Foreign Higher Education Qualifications as early as possible.
Interested in applying?
- CV
- Cover letter
- Degrees/Diplomas/Certificates
- Contact details for at least two referees
