Tuesday, July 19, 2011

PhD and PostDoc Position, Developmental Biology, Bonn (Bonn),Germany

PhD/PostDoc
Molecular Developmental Biology Unit, LIMES Institute, Bonn
The Life & Medical Sciences Institute (LIMES) is a Center of excellence for research at the University of Bonn (www.limes-zentrum.uni-bonn.de). In recent years Bonn has become a highly stimulating place of interdisciplinary and internationally competitive research at the interface of biology, chemistry, and medicine. The Molecular Developmental Biology Unit (Prof. M. Hoch) intensively collaborates with regional research institutes like the German Center for Neurodegenerative diseases (DZNE), the Center of Advanced European Studies and Research (CAESAR) as well as international  Centers of excellence like the Waseda University in Tokyo.
One of the major research goals of the Molecular Developmental Biology Unit is to understand the cross-regulation of metabolism and immunity in health and disease. We use the genetic model systems Drosophila melanogaster and mouse to identify and characterize gene functions of key regulators in vivo. Moreover Danio rerio (zebrafish) is currently established as a third in vivo model system for straight forward gene function analysis.
To test candidate genes for metabolism and immunity in Drosophila and zebrafish, PhD and PostDoc positions are available in the Molecular Developmental Biology Unit at LIMES. The zebrafish projects will be part of a collaboration between LIMES and the Waseda University, Tokyo. For scientific exchange and training, 1-2 month visits in Japan are planned.
Beyond being the heart of a pulsating science region, Bonn as it is own has plenty of values to offer like Life and Culture programmes at the University Campus, a vibrant theater and cinema scene, great museums, spacious parks like the “Rheinaue” at the Rhein river, panoramic views from the “Drachenfels” or the “Petersberg” and lots more.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in Drosophila or zebrafish. To apply, please email a CV, research interests and the names and contact information for two references to Prof. Dr. Michael Hoch (m.hoch@uni-bonn.de). Positions will start at begin of year 2012.


Publications relevant to the projects

Becker et al. 2010, Foxo-dependent regulation of innate immune homeostasis. Nature, 463: 369-373.
Bauer et al. 2009, Drosophila schlank links cellular sphingolipid metabolism with hormone-dependent body fat regulation. The EMBO Journal, 28: 3706-3716.
Fuss et al. 2006,The cytohesin Steppke is essential for insulin signalling in Drosophila. Nature 2006, 444: 945-948.