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Job ID: 124993 Neuropeptidergic Co-transmission & Neural Circuit Function in Caenorhabditis elegans Position: Post-doctoral Position Deadline: 16 December 2025 Employment Start Date: 1 January 2026 Contract Length: 3 years City: Frankfurt Country: Germany Institution: Goethe University Department: Biochemistry, Chemistry, Pharmacy Description: A postdoctoral position is available in the Gottschalk Lab at Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany, in collaboration with Dr. Aoki, Chinese Institute for Brain Research (CIBR), Beijing, to investigate the intricate mechanisms of neuropeptidergic co-transmission, dense-core vesicle (DCV) heterogeneity, and multisensory integration. The project employs the nematode C. elegans as a powerful model system for uncovering fundamental neurobiological principles: How can a single neuron use co-transmitted neuropeptides to encode and regulate complex behaviors? Our recent findings point towards a model where specific neuropeptides are sorted into distinct DCV subpopulations, allowing for independent regulation and release (Aoki et al., 2024, Nat. Commun. 15: 9504; doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-53899-7). You will dissect this mechanism and its role in behavior by focusing on two key neuropeptides, FLP-1 and NLP-10, in the context of locomotion control, with these key objectives: 1) Elucidating how NLP-10 and FLP-1 are sorted into distinct DCV populations, 2) Visualizing neuropeptide release, 3) Deciphering molecular mechanisms by which autocrine FLP-1 signaling through the DMSR-7 receptor suppresses NLP-10 release, 4) Mapping behavior-specific neural circuits differentially modulated by NLP-10 and FLP-1, and 5) Understanding multisensory integration of two conflicting sensory inputs, to enable appropriate behavioral decisions. We are seeking a highly motivated and independent candidate with a recent Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Cell Biology, Genetics, or a related field. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in the following areas: • C. elegans neurobiology and behavior. • Molecular biology and genetics (e.g., CRISPR/Cas9, cloning). • Live-cell imaging and quantitative microscopy. Candidates with a proven track record of productivity and a passion for fundamental neurobiological discovery are strongly encouraged to apply. We Offer: • A, three-year position in a supportive and collaborative research environment. • Salary level is E13, 100%. • State-of-the-art facilities for microscopy, molecular biology, and behavioral analysis. • A challenging and innovative project with high potential for high-impact publications. • Mentorship focused on career development. For more information, see lab website: www.uni-frankfurt.de/69793125 Please submit a single PDF containing: A cover letter describing your research interests, past experience, and motivation for applying; your CV, including a list of publications; names and contact information for three references. Applications should be addressed to [email protected] and [email protected] no later than Nov. 30 th , 2025.