PhD student position available in Molecular Neuroscience/Pharmacology

Our group at the Institute of Pharmacology (Medical University of Vienna) is currently seeking a PhD candidate to work on molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration and selective vulnerability in Parkinson's disease. Degeneration of select neuronal populations is a pathological hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases, but the mechanisms accounting for selective vulnerability or resistance are only poorly understood. The available project will investigate molecular and cellular mechanisms of selective vulnerability or resistance in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease. We are particularly interested in dissecting the role of neurotransmitter transporters and how they make specific neuronal populations either more vulnerable or more resistant to degeneration in order to identify new potential treatment strategies. A long-term goal will be to identify cell-type specific features that contribute to selective vulnerability and resistance in neurodegeneration, and to determine whether they are shared across different neurodegenerative diseases.

Your profile:

Masters degree in life sciences (biology, biochemistry, pharmacy, medicine or similar)

Previous laboratory experience is essential

Knowledge in stereotaxic mouse surgeries, histology or electrophysiology is a plus,

Excellent communication skills

Enthusiasm for basic research

Good team player

We offer:

PhD salary according to FWF scheme

Participation in an international PhD program

Highly supportive and collaborative environment

(inter)national collaborations

networking and exchange opportunities

Training and mentorship to achieve your personal long-term goals

Please submit your documents including your CV, a cover letter (including a brief introduction of yourself, an explanation how your previous studies and experience have prepared you for this PhD position, and a motivation why you are interested in this specific position) and your certificates (transcript of records) to thomas.steinkellner(at)meduniwien.ac.at