Two PhD positions – Circadian Tuning of Synaptic Communication, associated with the Research

The Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Biology seeks to fill the following positions:

Two PhD positions – Circadian Tuning of Synaptic Communication, associated with the Research Training Group NeuroTune

Job vacancy from 10.07.2026 · Reference number 97/2026

Remuneration

Salary group 13 TV-L

Term

Expected to be 4 years, Project funding*

Volume

65 % of a full-time position, part-time employment possible

Start date

1 October 2026

• Based on the provisions of the German act on fixed-term employment contracts in academia (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG). Duration depending on the qualification goal (expected to be 4 years).

Founded in 1409, Leipzig University is one of Germany’s largest universities and a leader in research and medical training. With around 30,000 students and more than 5000 members of staff across 14 faculties, it is at the heart of the vibrant and outward-looking city of Leipzig. Leipzig University offers an innovative and international working environment as well as an exciting range of career opportunities in research, teaching, knowledge and technology transfer, infrastructure and administration.

Information processing by the nervous system is based on communication between neurons and their partner cells. While different neuronal communication pathways vary significantly in signalling distance and speed, they also share a common feature: they are adjustable. This important property enables signal transfer to be tuned in an activity-dependent manner and in response to changing physiological demands. The Research Training Group NeuroTune studies molecular mechanisms that modify the way information is transmitted and received by neurons. By investigating different communication pathways, the synergistic goal of this collaborative initiative is to identify general structural and functional plasticity principles and to uncover molecular adaptations specific to species, cell types, and signalling modes.

NeuroTune is a joint initiative of the Faculty of Life Sciences and the Faculty of Medicine at Leipzig University. This collaborative spirit, woven into the fabric of the programme, distinguishes the Research Training Group from traditional pathways to a doctoral degree and provides doctoral researchers from both faculties with an understanding of how basic research and translational research are tightly interconnected.

Within this framework, we offer two PhD positions investigating the molecular and cellular mechanisms of circadian tuning of synaptic communication. Specifically, the projects investigate how neuronal circuits dynamically adjust presynaptic architecture, interneuron coupling and transmitter signalling across the circadian cycle. The project therefore combines neurogenetics, molecular biology, advanced imaging, neuropeptide signalling, adhesion GPCR biology and behavioural neuroscience to understand how neuronal circuits dynamically adapt their communication across the circadian cycle.

For more information, visit the NeuroTune website:

https://www.lw.uni-leipzig.de/en/institut-fuer-biologie/grk-neurotune

The role

• Conduct independent research in molecular and cellular neuroscience using Drosophila melanogaster
• Investigate molecular and cellular mechanisms regulating synaptic communication and neuronal plasticity applying genetic, molecular biological and biochemical techniques, including genome engineering approaches, immunohistochemistry, advanced microscopy and quantitative image analysis
• Analyse, interpret and present experimental data within an interdisciplinary research environment
• Contribute to scientific publications and present research findings at national and international conferences

About you

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or a related field
• Solid background in Neuroscience
• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken (language proficiency level at least C1)
• Ability to work both independently and in a team
• Strong work ethic and good communication skills

What we offer you

• Structured doctoral training within the DFG-funded Research Training Group NeuroTune
• Individual supervision by internationally recognised scientists from the Faculties of Medicine and Life Sciences
• Access to cutting-edge techniques including super-resolution microscopy, 3D electron microscopy, connectomics, optogenetics, advanced electrophysiology, genome editing and sophisticated behavioural readouts
• Goal-oriented staff development throughout your working life, with opportunities for continuing professional development
• A wide range of occupational health management services
• Remuneration in line with the collective bargaining agreement of the federal states (TV-L), including an annual special payment and occupational pension scheme
• Excellent transport links and the option to purchase a discounted public transport ticket, such as the Deutschlandticket as a commuter pass
• A wide range of food options in the refectories and cafés operated by Studentenwerk Leipzig.

Leipzig University aims to increase the proportion of women in positions of responsibility and therefore expressly invites qualified women to apply. Severely disabled persons – or persons deemed legally equal to them under Book IX of the German Social Code – are encouraged to apply and will be given preference in the case of equal suitability. If you have any questions about accessibility or need assistance with this application process, please contact Leipzig University’s disability officers at:

schwerbehindertenvertretung@uni-leipzig.de

.

Have we sparked your interest?

Please send your application with a letter of motivation (max. 1 page) and contact details of two academic referees (or letters of recommendation, if available) to Professor Dennis Pauls and Dr Beatriz Blanco-Redondo by 31 July 2026 via our online application portal.

If you have any questions regarding the job posting, please contact Professor Dennis Pauls on +49 341 97 - 36776 and Dr Beatriz Blanco-Redondo on +49 341 97 - 22117.

https://uni-leipzig.b-ite.careers/jobposting/8f95b72358da6767135f5265a49c6f5d706f0dcc