PhD Position (m/f/d)

Application deadline: 14/11/2024

Drive innovation in mental health treatments through cutting-edge research with human stem cells.

Join the University of Würzburg as a PhD candidate in a cutting-edge research project focused on the genetic underpinnings of bipolar disorder and treatment response. Our friendly, inclusive team is seeking a dedicated individual with a passion for psychiatric research and a desire to develop expertise in human stem cell models.

We offer extensive training in hiPSC-derived cell culture models and cutting-edge molecular biology techniques, alongside regular supervision to ensure consistent support throughout your PhD journey. You will also have opportunities for professional development and attend national and international conferences to present your findings.

• Extensive training in hiPSC-derived cell culture models and varied molecular biology techniques, ensuring you build a strong technical foundation.
• Regular supervisory meetings to provide ongoing support and monitor project progression, so you stay on track with your PhD milestones.
• A friendly, open-minded research group that strongly advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), fostering an inclusive work environment.
• Professional development via training courses offered by the Graduate School of Life Science at the University of Würzburg, supporting your academic growth.
• The ability to attend national and international conferences to present project data, allowing you to share your research on a global stage.

• Generate and characterize human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) from healthy controls and bipolar disorder (BD) patient donors.
• Differentiate hiPSCs into cortical neurons and assess the DGKη receptor's expression and activity using techniques like RT-qPCR, western blot, ELISA, and calcium imaging.
• Investigate the impact of the GAT haplotype and lithium treatment on neuronal signalling and receptor activity.
• Conduct single-cell RNA sequencing to explore gene expression changes in response to genetic variants and treatment within specific neuronal subtypes.

Project Description

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic mental disorder affecting 1-2% of the world’s population. Unfortunately, only ~50% patients can be satisfactorily treated with currently available drugs such as lithium. This is mostly because we do not understand the causes of the disorder, and therefore do not understand the mechanisms behind poor treatment response. Genetics have been shown to play a large role in the development of BD, and studies have highlighted a specific gene, diacylglycerol kinase eta (DGKH), that is thought to be involved in both BD and lithium treatment response. This gene makes a receptor, DGKη, that is important for transmitting signals inside the cell. There are variants in the DNA sequence of this gene which have specifically been linked to BD and lithium response, called the ‘GAT’ haplotype. However, data showing the effects of the GAT variant in this gene on BD risk and lithium responsiveness are lacking, especially in humans.

• Master’s degree (or comparable) in Biology, Neuroscience, Biochemistry or similar
• Experience with cell culture and standard molecular biology techniques
• Keen interest in mental health/psychiatric disorders
• Team player with effective communication skills
• Good organisational skills
• Ability to work independently and take the initiative
• Fluency and competency in the English language
• Previous experience in human induced pluripotent stem cells would be advantageous

• Training and Continuing Education
• Retirement Pension Plan
• Flexible Working Hours
• Collegiality
• Sport and Fitness Options
• Employee Events
• Corporate Benefits