Job ID: 96631
3-years PostDoc position, Behavioral/Systems Neuroscience/Stress physiology
Position: Post-doctoral Position
Deadline: 28 February 2023
Employment Start Date: 15 January 2023
Contract Length: 3 years
City: Mainz
Country: Germany
Institution: Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research
Department:
Description:
The Research Group Translational models of resilience led by Prof. Dr. Marianne Müller (LIR Mainz – Leibniz-Institut für Resilienzforschung (lir-mainz.de) is recruiting a
PostDoc in Behavioral/Systems Neuroscience/Stress physiology
One of the core expertises of the Müller group is the development and refinement of valid animal experimental models (mouse) to study the neurobiological mechanisms of resilience. We have a broad expertise on various mouse stress models in combination with genetic manipulations to unravel the molecular, genetic and circuit-level underpinnings of individual stress resilience. We continuously aim at the refinement of our stress models, ranging from stress inoculation, chronic social stress to early life adversity models (e.g. (e. g. van der Kooij et al., PNAS 2018; Reconceptualising resilience within a translational framework is supported by unique and brain-region specific transcriptional signatures in mice | bioRxiv). Within the current project we are currently implementing cutting-edge, longitudinal, observer-independent methods for assessing an individual’s behavior and physiological parameters (e. g. Stellar Telemetry System, data-driven behavioral signatures) so as to establish a systems biology perspective on resilience. Our aim is to dissect the molecular, physiological and behavioral determinants of the ‘tipping point’ at which stress effects switch from being beneficial to aversive. The advertised, fully-funded 3-years position will enable the successful candidate to develop an independent and competitive research profile. In close collaboration with human researchers within the LIR, we will focus on read-outs that can be transferred to the human population.
Candidates must be highly motivated, well organized, technically proficient, critically minded, and able to work independently but collaboratively with others. Candidates must possess a recent PhD, MD, or MD/PhD with a strong background in behavioral neuroscience or systems physiology and a passion for stress research. Extra consideration will be given to those with relevant experience with animal model development and experience in surgical techniques.
Desired experiences and training
- PhD in neurobiology, physiology or a related field; candidates from veterinary medicine/medicine with scientific interest are also very welcome (MD or MD/PhD)
- Proven experience in working with rodents (preferentially mice): experience in surgical techniques, stress models and/or behavioral assessments
- Strong interest to understand the biological mechanisms underlying stress-related disorders and resilience; interest in physiological assessments such as telemetry
- Experience in standard lab techniques
- Ability to work in a team
- Excellent skills in spoken and written English
The Leibniz Institute of Resilience Research (LIR) Mainz is an extrauniversity research institute funded by the German Leibniz Association (Leibniz Association (leibniz-gemeinschaft.de) characterised by its unique research profile: all research activities are ultimately bundled to investigate the phenomenon of “resilience” to stress-associated mental disorders across scales and at the highest available scientific level. The LIR offers a remarkable opportunity to perform cutting edge research with outstanding institutional support and exceptional shared core facilities in an environment of open collaboration, educational advancement, and training opportunities.
To apply, email a cover letter describing research interests and career goals, CV, list of publications and contact information for 3 references to Prof. Dr. Marianne Müller (marianne.mueller@lir-mainz.de)