Eurizon.eu

Organization: Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich

Location: Munich, Germany

Field: Neuroscience

Requirements:

We expect a high interest in neurobiology especially in imaging techniques as well as the ability to do creative and independent research. Additionally, suitable applicants possess technical knowledge and handling skills and have a very high level of motivation. Applicants should hold a masters degree or a German ‘Diplom’ in physics, biotechnology or biology. Prior experience in imaging techniques, electrophysiology or programming skills is desirable but not necessary.

Abstract:

We are looking for PhD students who want to join our group at the Center of Neuropathology at the Ludwig-Maximilians University (LMU) in Munich. We are offering projects involving in vivo two-photon imaging in order to identify new therapeutical strategies to cure synaptic dysfunction in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease

Description:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia. We previously found evidence that the alteration of synaptic function and microglia activation is an early event in the disease (Fuhrmann et al. Nature Neurosci. 13:411-413, 2010; Bittner et al. J. Neurosci. 29:10405-10409, 2009; Bittner et al. PloS one. 5(11):e15477 2010). We aim to understand how synapses degenerate in animal models of AD by visualizing changes in the distribution and size of dendritic spines in vivo and to identify compounds that rescue this process.
The projects involve cutting-edge cell imaging (automated confocal and in vivo two-photon microscopy), the use of fluorescent reporters, viral vectors and various transgenic animal models. The Center of Neuropathology is the German reference centre for neurodegenerative diseases and is a leading in vivo imaging laboratory affiliated with the LMU, one of the top three German universities.
We offer interesting research topics with biomedical relevance in a stimulating scientific environment at an internationally competitive level. Funding will be available for 3 years, starting in July 2011. If you are interested please send your electronic application to sonja.einhaus@med.uni-muenchen.de
 
Contact:
Prof. Dr. Jochen Herms
Experimental Neuropathology Research Group
Institute of Neuropathology
LMU-Munich
Feodor-Lynen-Str. 23
81377 Munich

Deadline: 06-07-2011

If you apply for this position please say you saw it on eurizons.eu