PhD Student Position in Cardiac Electrophysiology — Institut für Herz- und Kreislaufphysiologie, UMG, Germany

Summary

The Institut für Herz- und Kreislaufphysiologie at the University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG) is seeking a highly motivated PhD student (f/m/d) to join a research team investigating cardiac electrophysiology using optogenetic and photopharmacological tools. The successful candidate will work on projects that aim to better understand arrhythmias and develop new light-based strategies to terminate them. The position is embedded in collaborative research networks on GPCR signaling and heart–brain disease integration.

Designation

PhD student position (f/m/d)

Quick Facts

Research Area

This PhD project focuses on cardiac electrophysiology using cutting-edge optical tools. Research topics include:

• Application and characterization of novel channelrhodopsins and optoGPCRs
• Photopharmacological strategies to modulate cardiac excitability and terminate arrhythmias
• Functional studies in HEK cells, human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, and ventricular tissue slices
• Integration with consortium projects on GPCR signaling dynamics (FOR5807) and interdisciplinary heart & brain research (RTG2824)

Location

The role is based at the University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG) in Göttingen, a traditional university town at the center of Germany. UMG is part of a vibrant research environment that includes the University of Göttingen, Max Planck Institutes, the German Primate Centre and other research institutions on the Göttingen Campus.

Eligibility / Qualification

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Completed Master of Science (MSc) or equivalent degree in a life sciences discipline (e.g., molecular medicine, biology, chemistry, physics)
• Practical laboratory experience (molecular cloning, cell culture or related techniques preferred)
• Interest in cardiovascular basic research, electrophysiology and optogenetic approaches
• Ability to work independently, responsibly and flexibly, and to contribute effectively within an international team

Scholarship / Position Description

This is a structured PhD position offering comprehensive scientific training within local graduate programs (GAUSS/GGNB) and optional participation in the Hertha Sponer College and EKFZ translational academy. The candidate will be trained in electrophysiology methods such as patch clamp, Ca2+ imaging and multi-electrode recordings, and will perform functional readouts in hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes as well as isometric force measurements in ventricular slices from mice and humans.

The successful applicant will be part of the working group for vegetative optogenetics at the Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and will benefit from mentoring by investigators across the Göttingen Campus and consortium partners. UMG provides excellent technical infrastructure and a supportive environment including employee benefits such as on-site childcare and health promotion programs.

How to Apply

To apply, visit the UMG recruiting portal using the link below and follow the instructions on the job posting. Please include a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts and contact details for references. If applicable, indicate any severe disability or equal status in your application to ensure appropriate consideration under German regulations.

Apply here on the UMG recruiting portal

Last Date to Apply

Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Additional Notes

• The University Medical Center Göttingen is committed to gender equality and encourages applications from underrepresented genders.
• Applicants with severe disabilities are especially welcome; in cases of equal suitability, preference will be given to severely disabled candidates in accordance with applicable regulations.

We look forward to receiving your application and to welcoming a dedicated researcher to our team.