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In order to fill a fixed-term position in part-time (65%, 25,8895 hours per week) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for 1 PhD Candidate (f/m/d) The chair deals with The research of the Behavioral Neuroscience group focuses on uncovering the underlying pathomechanisms of various neurodegenerative diseases of the cerebellum, such as Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 6 and Episodic Ataxia Type 2. The focus is on studying channels, receptors, and GPCRs expressed in cerebellar Purkinje cells that contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases and neurodivergence (e.g., autism). Using various mouse models, the aim is to develop and characterize new therapeutic approaches. The proposed project will investigate specific GPCRs expressed in the cerebellum, whose endogenous ligands and physiological functions are currently unknown (so-called orphan GPRs). The candidate will perform various in vitro experiments to study the physiological functions, ligands, and signalling pathways of the selected orphan GPRs, accompanied by performing basic mouse behavioral essays to explore the GPRs physiological role in development and neurodegeneration. Scope: part-time Duration: fixed-term, 3 Years Start: at the earliest possible date Apply by: 2026-08-25 Your tasks: • Molecular biology: Cloning of various plasmids and sensors using standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, restriction digest, ligation, etc.) • Cell culture: Culturing, passaging, transfection, and generation of stable GPCR-specific cell lines for in vitro studies; performing assays to identify GPCR signalling pathways • Biochemical assays: Co-immunoprecipitation, Western blotting, high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry • Fluorescence microscopy and analysis of fluorescent images; performing calcium imaging • Animal experiments: Conducting and analyzing behavioral experiments in mice; as well as organ extraction followed by histological analyses (IHC, qPCR, Western blot) • Electrophysiology: In vivo recordings and analysis of Purkinje cell activity • Supervision: Support in supervising Bachelor’s and Master’s theses, as well as participation in specialized and advanced training modules Your profile: We are looking for a candidate with an excellent Master’s degree in biology with a focus on neurobiology/neuroscience or a comparable field. Excellent candidates holding a Bachelor’s degree in (neuro) biology or a comparable field may also apply and can start their PhD with the ‘fast track’ programme. Ideally, the candidate should have the following qualifications: • Excellent English language skills (C1). At least A1 German skills • Experience in planning and conducting molecular biology experiments • Experience in cell culture techniques (maintenance of cell lines, transfection etc.) • Experience in fluorescence microscopy • Strong skills in project planning and collaborative research • In-depth knowledge of GPCRs • Basic mouse handling experience • We are looking for an open-minded, extroverted, and scientifically enthusiastic individual who stands out through teamwork, independence, accuracy, and excellent academic • achievements. Willingness to learn new methods and to give presentations in English is expected. • For application, pleases provide at least one letter of recommendation and a motivational letter. [https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/3919bc224d1cd461a7143b176a994f35d3b6eedd0?ref=AfA](https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/3919bc224d1cd461a7143b176a994f35d3b6eedd0?ref=AfA)