PhD position / Junior Research Associate (all genders) in the field of Nephrology

Our research group investigates various kidney diseases, with a particular focus on glomerular damage. A main focus of the group is the podocyte, an imoportant part of the glomerular filtration barrier. Within PodoSign, a DFG-granted collaborative research project (TR 422) we deeply characterize podocyte signalling pathways. This project explores podocyte’s response to mechanical stimulation and stress. In this project, mechanical stress will be induced in different mouse models, podocytes will be isolated and analyzed in multi-omic technologies. With this approach we aim to map all involved signalling pathways. Causality will be confirmed in other models (e.g. in the Drosophila fly model) to identify potential targets for new developed treatement strategies. This position is part of our graduate program within the Collaborative Research Center. The research group is international and interdisciplinary. The working environment is state-of-the-art and located on the newly opened Campus Research II.

Main tasks:

• Mouse experiments (planning and implementation of experiments)
• Preparation of tissue from mouse experiments (e.g. podocyte isolation, immuno-histochemistry, analysis of blood and urine…)
• Data analysis of Omics-Data sets

This position is initially limited to three years and is to be filled at 65% of the regular weekly working hours.

• Completed university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Biology, Biotechnology, Human Biology, Life Sciences, or a comparable field
• Strong interest in scientific research, particularly in gene therapy
• Commitment to conducting mouse experiments
• Proficiency in basic molecular biology techniques (e.g., cloning, PCR, cell culture);
  experience with adeno-associated virus (AAV) production and handling highly desirable
• Excellent command of English, given the international nature of the research group
• Team spirit, flexibility, and enthusiasm for scientific work

• Attractive compensation according to TVöD/VKA
• Secure employment with meaningful work and respectful collaboration
• Comprehensive onboarding and open knowledge exchange within the team
• Extensive training and further education programs at our UKE Academy for Education and Careers
• Opportunities to contribute to our “UKE INside” personnel policy through cross-professional and cross-hierarchical projects
• Sustainable travel: subsidies for the Deutschlandticket as a job ticket, and Dr. Bike bicycle service
• Family-friendly working environment: cooperation on childcare, free vacation childcare, advice for employees with relatives in need of care
• Excellent health, wellness, and sports programs
• A wide range of dining options in our staff restaurant, with additional choices available at the “Health Kitchen” cafés, bistros, and an on-site supermarket

We live diversity and value variety

We offer a work environment that provides equal opportunities regardless of age, gender, sexual identity, disability, ethnic and social origin, or religion. This is confirmed by our accession to the Charter of Diversity. We explicitly aim to increase the proportion of women in management positions, especially among scientific personnel in research and teaching. Women with equal qualifications will be given priority. The same applies in the case of under-representation of one gender in the advertised area. Persons with severe disabilities with equal aptitude, competence, and professional performance will be given priority.

> Learn more about "Diversity at UKE" here.