PhD Position (m/f/d) in Developmental Neuroscience

Anticipated Start Date:  01.03.2026
Application End Date:  28.02.2026
Temporary Employment:  36 months
Working Hours:  Part Time
Requisition ID:  1723

The University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus and the Faculty of Medicine together form University Medicine Dresden. It is committed to excellence in high-performance medicine, medical research and teaching as well as healthcare services for patients in the entire region.

Together for the cutting-edge medicine of tomorrow - become part of  University Medicine Dresden

 

PhD Position (m/f/d)  in Developmental Neuroscience
at the Institute of Clinical Genetics

 

 

 

The doctoral position is available as soon as possible and is initially limited to a period of three years. Remuneration is based on the pay scale regulations of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service of the Federal States (TV-L) and, subject to personal eligibility, is possible at pay group E13 (65% doctoral position).

 

The Functional Neurogenomics research group led by Philipp Abe investigates the molecular foundations of brain development, with a particular focus on the formation of neuronal circuits. Within the framework of the “ThalamoConnect” project, state-of-the-art single-cell technologies and bioinformatic analyses are employed to decipher the genetic programs that govern the connectivity of brain regions and contribute to neurological disorders when disrupted.

 

We look forward to receiving your complete and compelling application, including a one-page motivation letter, curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, and contact information for two referees.

 

Your Role – Where Your Expertise Is Needed:

 

  • Performing neuronal tracing to analyze the development of brain circuits in mouse models

  • Applying tissue clearing techniques and light-sheet microscopy for 3D imaging of the entire mouse brain

  • Analyzing and interpreting single-cell genomics data to investigate cellular mechanisms

  • Functional validation of newly identified neuronal connections and gene functions

  • Contributing to the preparation of scientific publications and supporting project and third-party funding applications with the aim of completing a doctorate (Ph.D. / Dr. rer. medic.)

  • Supervising and providing technical support to students (Bachelor’s, Master’s, medical students) in daily laboratory and project work

  • Participating in the planning and organization of experimental workflows in the laboratory

 

 

Your Profile – A Perfect Fit:

 

  • Completed university degree in biology, neuroscience, molecular medicine, biochemistry, or a comparable field

  • Experience in handling mouse models and basic surgical techniques

  • Knowledge of omics data analysis (e.g., single-cell genomics)

  • Experience with advanced imaging and microscopy techniques is desirable

  • Strong interest in interdisciplinary research and independent work in an experimental laboratory

  • High level of care and precision in the planning, execution, and evaluation of experiments

  • Patience and perseverance for complex research projects and long-term analyses

  • Team spirit and strong communication skills for close collaboration in interdisciplinary teams

 

 

Our Offer – Convincing Across the Board:

 

  • A stimulating research environment at a leading university medical center
  • Access to state-of-the-art multiomics and imaging platforms
  • Close supervision and integration into collaborative research networks
  • Compensation: In accordance with the collective agreement, plus an annual special payment, subject to personal eligibility

  • Leave: 30 days of paid annual leave

  • Professional Development: Extensive internal and external training and continuing education opportunities to continuously strengthen your skills

  • Work Culture: We value transparency, teamwork, and shared success. Join us at social events or sporting activities such as the REWE Team Challenge

  • Mobility: Job bike program and subsidy for public transport tickets to support an environmentally friendly and convenient commute

  • Health & Well-being: Access to modern sports and exercise programs at our health center, mental health initiatives, and comprehensive occupational health management

  • Employee Benefits: Discounts at our hospital pharmacy, exclusive corporate benefits, and additional shopping platforms

  • Work–Life Balance: Our family office supports you with childcare, holiday programs, and care for relatives. We also offer flexible working models

 

Your contact in the HR Directorate

 

 

Elena Koch

Tel: 0351-458- 2594

Severely disabled applicants are expressly encouraged to apply and will be given preferential consideration if equally qualified.

We kindly ask you to apply preferably via our online form to make the selection process faster and more effective. Of course, we also consider your written application without any disadvantages. 

To ensure the best possible health protection for our patients and employees, we require proof of measles vaccination (a medical certificate) in accordance with the Infection Protection Act. Further proof of vaccination status must be presented before starting work.

Good reasons for the Dresden University Medicine as an employer

Our Benefits

Attractive conditions: We offer attractive compensation according to the collective bargaining agreement, 30 days of vacation, and a fixed annual bonus. For retirement, we offer the option of a company-sponsored pension plan.

Career & Development: Benefit from a wide range of training and professional development opportunities, including at our in-house Carus Academy.

Family Focus: Our Family Office supports you with childcare or eldercare needs.

Health & Prevention: You receive free health consultations, comprehensive vaccination coverage, and regular occupational health checkups. You can also take advantage of our in-house health center, Carus Vital.

Mobility & Transportation: Stay mobile with our job ticket or bike leasing options.

Employee Benefits: Take advantage of discounts on our additional offers at mitarbeiterangebote.de or mitarbeitervorteile.de.