The Institute of Clinical Neurobiology is an independent institution and part of the University Hospital of Würzburg. It is an internationally recognized institute with a focus on motor disorders and cognitive diseases.
Within the project “
Design and development of genetic-based therapeutic strategies for motoneuron diseases“, the institute for Clinical Neurobiology (University Hospital, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg) invites applications for a Master Student.
Master Student in Neuroscience; University Hospital Würzburg
Activities and responsibilities
Our research focuses on the identification of cellular targets to bypass affected pathways in spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress type 1 (SMARD1). The project, funded by the German Research Foundation, aims to:
- Identify and characterize cellular targets with compensatory potential to bypass affected pathways in SMARD1 using iPSCs from SMARD1 patients and primary motoneurons from mouse models.
- Detailed analysis of the helicase IGHMBP2 (ribosome-associated ATPase/helicase, affected in SMARD1) and its role in motor neuron degeneration.
- Studies in SMARD1 mouse models focusing on defective microcircuitry for movement patterns.
Qualification profile
We are looking for a highly motivated Master student with a background in neurobiology and good technical background in molecular biology (qRT-PCR, Western blots, cloning and cell culture techniques).
We offer
The candidate will use advanced molecular biology and cell culture techniques including live cell imaging and iPSC techniques for studying alterations in diseased neurons. Motor function studies, histological analysis of mouse tissue and confocal microscopy will complete the project. The project benefits from a strong cooperation and knowledge transfer between partner groups, and is well embedded in the research focus of the Institute. He/she will have access to a modern and well equipped research facility, will work with already available mouse models, and will be supported by technical assistance.
Applications including the usual documents (CV, certificates, brief statement of research interest) should be sent as a single pdf file to email.
Dr. Sibylle Jablonka
Institute of Clinical Neurobiology
University Hospital Würzburg
Versbacher Str. 5
D-97078 Würzburg, Germany
Tel. ++49 (0931) 201-44010
Fax ++49 (0931) 201-44009
email