About the opportunity
The newly established research group of Prof. Dr. Timothy Zolnik at the Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr University Bochum, investigates how deep cortical neurons influence cortical and thalamic circuits. The work combines cellular electrophysiology with optogenetics, pharmacology, and circuit approaches to study mechanisms relevant to attention and arousal. The PhD candidate will investigate cellular and synaptic mechanisms in defined cortical circuits, focusing on layer 6b and its interactions with other cortical and thalamic neurons through whole-cell recordings in acute mouse brain slices, optogenetic circuit mapping, and quantitative analysis.
Salary and benefits
- Salary based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L) at pay grade E13 TV-L, subject to meeting personal and collective agreement requirements.
- Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence.
- Employment at one of the largest universities in Germany within the University Alliance Ruhr.
- Qualified on-boarding and induction process, alongside extensive training and professional development opportunities.
- Discounts for bicycle purchases and bicycle rental systems.
- Close scientific supervision with scope to develop an independent doctoral research project, plus access to advanced electrophysiology and imaging infrastructure.
Who can apply?
- A completed Master's degree (or equivalent) in neuroscience, biology, physiology, biomedical sciences, or a related field (required).
- Hands-on experience with whole-cell patch-clamp recordings in acute ex vivo brain slices (required).
- Experience analyzing and interpreting electrophysiological data (required).
- A strong interest in cellular, synaptic, and circuit neuroscience, with careful experimental practice (required).
- Very good written and spoken English and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively (required).
- Experience with stereotaxic viral injections and/or optogenetics (desirable).
- Experience with neuropharmacology, histology, microscopy, and/or programming for data analysis (advantageous).
Required documents
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Certificates (e.g., employment certificates, degree certificates, training certificates)
When to apply
- Application deadline: October 26, 2026
- Position start date: March 2027
How to apply
- Prepare your application documents including a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and relevant certificates.
- Submit your application via the official online application portal referencing number ANR 6212 by October 26, 2026.
Additional information
- The position is offered as a fixed-term part-time role (25.8895 hours per week, corresponding to 65%) for a duration of 3 years.
- The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
- Teaching load will be calculated according to § 3 of the Lehrverpflichtungsverordnung of North Rhine-Westphalia.
- Campus languages are German and English; competence in at least one and willingness to learn the other is a prerequisite, with free language courses provided.
- Reference number for this vacancy is ANR 6212.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Ideal for neuroscientists with hands-on whole-cell patch-clamp experience who want to pursue a structured PhD project in a new lab.
- Offers strong professional development through advanced infrastructure, publication opportunities, and integration into the University Alliance Ruhr neuroscience network.
- Suited for candidates looking for a secure academic position with collective-agreement salary protections in Germany.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is part-time (65% workload) and fixed-term for 3 years, which requires careful planning around project completion.
- Relocation to Bochum, Germany is necessary as the position requires on-site presence at Ruhr University Bochum.
- Application and interview costs, including travel and accommodation, cannot be reimbursed by the university.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position serves as an excellent stepping stone for researchers aiming to complete a doctorate while building a robust publication record in cellular and circuit neuroscience. It bridges advanced technical training with independent research scope, fitting candidates targeting careers in academic research or specialized biotechnology sectors.
Our take
Candidates with a Master's degree in a relevant life science discipline and practical patch-clamp expertise should strongly consider applying before the October 2026 deadline. Those without prior electrophysiology experience will find the technical prerequisites challenging to meet.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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