PhD student position (100%, funded) in synapse-type specific proteome studies

How does life emerge from molecules and cells? This is the central question that motivates us. With curiosity and passion, we investigate the entire spectrum ranging from the atom to the organism. The Biozentrum of the University of Basel is one of the world’s leading life sciences institutes. With 32 groups and 500 employees, we are a dynamic and international research community that has spawned many fundamental discoveries in biology and medicine as well as several Nobel Laureates. Become part of our community!

We are looking to recruit a highly motivated PhD student for an SNF funded project led by Marc van Oostrum in the laboratory of Peter Scheiffele.
The project:

In an interdisciplinary project supported by an Ambizione grant of the Swiss National Science Foundation, we will investigate the molecular diversity of synaptic proteomes from in-vivo brain structures (see van Oostrum et. al. 2023 bioRxiv, Cell – in press 2023). Conceptually the research aims at understanding how synaptic proteins determine synapse-type specific connectivity and function. The project integrates molecular neurobiology with systems neuroscience and combines state-of-the-art mass spectrometry-based proteomics technologies with fluorescence activated sorting and in vivo labelling of defined synaptic populations within neuronal circuits. We are looking for a highly motivated student that is excited to learn and develop new technologies in order to drive biology.
MSc or equivalent degree with a strong interest in interdisciplinary neurobiology across scales from molecules to circuits. The project involves mass spectrometry-based proteomics, stereotactic surgery, fluorescence-activated cell sorting, genome editing methods, and computational biology. Experience in any of these domains is benefical, but not required. More important are self-motivation, independence and analytical thinking of the applicant. The position is funded and salary is according to institutional guidelines.
A project at the frontier of science to solve fundamental questions in neurobiology. You will have the unique opportunity to join a small team with close guidance by the SNF Ambizione project grantee Marc van Oostrum while at the same time being embedded in an internationally leading group of dynamic and collaborative scientists, Phd students, postdocs and technicians. The Biozentrum provides a highly stimulating collaborative research environment with a fantastic infrastructure in a brand-new building, as well as state-of-the-art technology platforms for cutting-edge interdisciplinary research.

Basel is an international city with people from 150 nations. Located on the border where three countries meet – Switzerland, Germany and France – it is Europe’s most important life sciences hub. Basel provides a high standard of living and a rich cultural atmosphere.
Application / Contact

Please apply online: https://biped2.biozentrum.unibas.ch/apply/phd-student_proteome_studies

Applications should include:

• Your up-to-date CV with contact details of at least two referees
• A brief personal statement, explaining how your research skills and interests align with the aims of this project and the research focus of our group (max 2 pages)
• All required diplomas, including MSc confirmation and grades
• Contact of 2 previous mentors for letters of reference

Review of applications will start immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Only online applications will be considered.

For any informal enquiries, please contact: marc.van-oostrum@brain.mpg.de