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Postdoctoral Research Associate, Neuropeptidergic Modulation of the Zebrafish Neuromuscular Junction, Gottschalk Lab, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Neuropeptidergic Modulation of the Zebrafish Neuromuscular Junction, Gottschalk Lab, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany

A position for a postdoctoral research associate (salary level E13 TV-G-U, 100%) is available asap at the Institute of Biophysical Chemistry at Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany, for 3 years. The project in the Gottschalk research group (https://www.uni-frankfurt.de/69793125) addresses how transmission at the neuromuscular synapse of the zebrafish is modulated by neuropeptide signaling (see Dill et al., 2024, iScience 27: 110687; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2024.110687). The project aims to investigate in which situations neuropeptides are released from motor neurons, to homeostatically alter transmission, and to stimulate this release optogenetically. Candidate gene knockouts, affecting this signaling, have been generated and shall now be characterized. Also ultrastructural characteristics of synapses in the mutants will be analyzed in collaboration with other staff members, and the nature of the effects of neuropeptides on the postsynaptic expression of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors will be investigated.

 

Prerequisite for employment is a doctorate/PhD in neuroscience, (cell) biology, biochemistry, or a related field. Further requirements include enthusiasm for basic research, particularly in cell and neurobiology, as well as in-depth knowledge in the following areas:

  • Generation and maintenance of genetically modified or mutated zebrafish lines.

  • Extensive experience in molecular biology and fluorescence imaging.

  • Knowledge of submitting animal testing applications.

  • FELASA certificate for working with vertebrates/zebrafish.

 

We offer:

  • A fully funded position in a supportive and cooperative research environment.

  • State-of-the-art facilities for light microscopy, molecular biology, and behavioral analysis.

  • A challenging and innovative project with high potential for visible publications.

  • Mentoring in scientific / academic career planning.

 

Please send your application including CV, research interests and plans, as well as certificates, and 2 references, preferably in electronic form, not later than 28th February, 2026 to: Alexander Gottschalk (a.gottschalk@em.uni-frankfurt.de), Goethe University Frankfurt, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Max-von-Laue-Straße 15, 60438 Frankfurt, Tel.: 069-798-42518.