PhD Position in Soft Matter Group: Cell Migration Project

Location: Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Faculty of Physics, Rädler Group, Munich, Germany. Web: https://www.physik.lmu.de/softmatter/en/ 

Field: Biophysics/Cell Mechanics

Project: Single Cell Behaviour in Confined Micropatterns

The Soft Matter Group at LMU is seeking a highly motivated and talented individual for a PhD position funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG). This position is part of a research project focusing on the behaviour of migrating cells in one-dimensional confined environments. 

Project Overview:

The PhD project aims to unravel the mechanisms of single cell migration within micropatterned environments. By employing state-of-the-art experimental techniques, you will investigate how cells migrate in and adapt to confined spaces. This project is conducted in collaboration with a theoretical research group based in Berlin, offering the opportunity to integrate experimental and theoretical approaches.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform high-throughput time-lapse microscopy to observe cell migration dynamics.
• Utilize Fluorescent Recovery After Photobleaching (FRAP) to study molecular mobility and interactions within migrating cells.
• Develop and employ photochemical microfabrication techniques to create migration platforms.
• Maintain and culture various cell lines for experimental use.
• Apply computer vision methods for image analysis and data quantification.
• Collaborate closely with theoretical researchers to integrate experimental data with computational models.

Requirements:

• A Master's degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Biophysics, Cell Biology, or a related field.
• Strong experimental skills and hands-on experience with microscopy techniques.
• Familiarity with cell culture and molecular biology techniques desirable.
• Basic knowledge of computer vision and data analysis desirable.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in English (both written and spoken).

What We Offer:

• A dynamic and stimulating research environment within a leading Soft Matter group.
• Access to cutting-edge experimental facilities and technologies.
• Collaboration with top-tier theoretical researchers.
• Comprehensive training and support for professional development.
• Competitive salary and benefits in accordance with DFG guidelines (75% TV-L 13).

Application via the Graduate School Quantitative and Molecular Biosciences Munich (QMB):

As part of QMB, you will additionally have ample opportunities for scientific exchange with world-leading scientists of various fields and develop your scientific career with lasting benefits. The international PhD training program at QMB emphasizes communication and collaboration across traditionally separate disciplines, including biochemistry, medicine, bioinformatics, experimental and theoretical biophysics, and applied mathematics.

QMB places a strong emphasis on experimental work while also encouraging students to engage in theoretical approaches to derive meaningful insights from their data. This dual focus on advanced quantitative experimentation and theoretical analysis, combined with the excellence of its participating scientists, positions QMB uniquely within the European scientific landscape.

Please note: All applications have to be submitted in English through our online application tool. Applications submitted by mail or email will not be considered.

For detailed information about our application requirements see: https://qbm.genzentrum.lmu.de/application/requirements/ 

In your application, you can select up to two research groups you are interested in. For details about research areas and participating research groups, please see: https://qbm.genzentrum.lmu.de/research/research-areas-groups/