Augsburg: Doctoral Student (m/f/d) Enhancer-Driven Viral Tools for Neuronal Subtypes

Das Universitätsklinikum Augsburg – Spitzenmedizin leben. Gemeinsam.

Das Universitätsklinikum Augsburg ist eine der jüngsten und zugleich eine der größten Universitätskliniken Deutschlands. Wir vereinen nahezu alle Fachrichtungen der Medizin unter einem Dach. Die große Bandbreite an universitärer Spitzenmedizin, höchste Versorgungsqualität und wegweisende Forschung und Lehre eröffnen unseren Mitarbeitenden zahllose Entwicklungsmöglichkeiten – und bietet Ihnen eine sinnstiftende und verantwortungsvolle Tätigkeit.
Bringen Sie Ihr Wissen ein – und werden Sie Teil eines einzigartigen Teams, das medizinische Exzellenz mit Menschlichkeit verbindet.

For the field of Translational Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, we are looking for a Doctoral Student (m/f/d) for enhancer-driven viral tools for neuronal subtypes, starting as soon as possible. The position is limited to 2 years with the possibility of extension and requires a commitment of 25 hours per week.

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join a multidisciplinary research project focused on developing viral-based tools for specific labelling and functional manipulation of transcriptionally defined neuronal subtypes.
The project integrates RNA sequencing analysis with state-of-the-art approaches in neuronal manipulation, including PSAMs and DREADDs, to identify and validate enhancer-driven viral constructs for selective labelling and manipulation of neuronal subtypes.

The research program is structured into three main objectives:

• Bioinformatics analysis to identify subtype-specific enhancers.
• Experimental validation of candidate enhancers.
• Development and testing of enhancer-driven viral constructs for neuronal manipulation.

• Conduct bioinformatic analyses using enhancer databases and deep learning tools to establish selection criteria for enhancers
• Establish and optimize primary neuronal cell cultures
• Perform viral production and carry out quality control assays
• Contribute to data analysis, interpretation, figure preparation, and manuscript writing
• Collaborate with internal and external partners and actively participate in lab meetings, training sessions, and conferences

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Neuroscience, Biology, Bioinformatics, or a related discipline
• Proven experience in programming/coding (Python, Matlab, or R) and willingness to learn new approaches
• Hands-on experience with primary neuronal cell culture
• Familiarity with viral tools (e.g., AAVs)
• High level of motivation, reliability, and independence, combined with the ability to work effectively in a team
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English

• The grouping takes place in TV-L taking into account your qualifications and personal requirements including the social benefits customary in the public service (company pension, annual special payment)
• Access to cutting-edge technologies and a collaborative research environment
• Integration into an internationally oriented research group
• Support for presenting your work at national and international conferences
• Employee benefits in various companies

Dr. Oumayma Aousji
Translational Anesthesiology
0821/598-3489

Please upload your documents by the 04.12.2025

We look forward to your application!

In addition to exciting tasks in a variety of fields, the university hospital offers you numerous attractive benefits and a meaningful job. You can find more information  hier. 

The position is suitable for people with severe disabilities. Applicants (m/f/d) with severe disabilities will be preferred if they are essentially the same aptitude, ability and professional performance. Women are invited to apply in accordance with Article 7 (3) BayGlG. When starting work at the Augsburg University Hospital, proof of sufficient immune protection in accordance with §§ 23, 23a IfSG must be presented or the same must be met.

• Teilzeit
• 86156 Augsburg, Deutschland
• Mit Berufserfahrung
• 13.11.25