A doctoral position is available in the Gottschalk Lab at Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany (https://www.uni-frankfurt.de/69793125), in collaboration with the lab of Achilleas Frangakis (https://frangakis.biophysik.org/), to investigate the organization and structure of gap junctions in association with stomatin ring complexes (see Rosenkranz et al., 2025, Sci. Adv. 11, eaea8596; https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.aea8596). The project employs the nematode C. elegans as a powerful model system for addressing fundamental neurobiological questions: How do gap junctions (GJs) look like in situ, and how are they assembled into channels and GJ patches? We discovered that stomatins, which form cap-like, multimeric protein assemblies at the plasma membrane, associate with GJs. In this project, we want to understand, how GJs and stomatins interact, and how stomatins help the formation of GJs or their recycling.
PhD student: In situ cryo-Electron Tomography of gap junction-stomatin complexes in Frankfurt, GER
Activities and responsibilities
This involves preparation of C. elegans strains for labeling GJs and stomatins in vivo, and to identify GJs in thin lamellae prepared from frozen specimens using a brand new Hydra Bio Plasma FIB (focused ion beam) instrument, enabling the preparation of serial lamellae for subsequent cryo-ET analysis on the in-house Titan Krios Cryo transmission electron microscope.
Further work will involve the study of other types of cellular junctions, in the context of the work of the cluster of excellence SCALE (SubCellular Architecture of LifE) at Goethe University (https://scale-frankfurt.org/).
Further work will involve the study of other types of cellular junctions, in the context of the work of the cluster of excellence SCALE (SubCellular Architecture of LifE) at Goethe University (https://scale-frankfurt.org/).
Qualification profile
The project is initially funded for 3 years, with the possibility for extension. We are searching for an individual with expertise in sample preparation of cells or organism for electron microscopy, along with solid experience in molecular biology and fluorescence imaging. Prior knowledge of handling C. elegans nematodes and generating transgenic animals is beneficial, but not a prerequisite. The candidate should bring enthusiasm for basic science and a specific interest in cell- and neurobiology. An MSc in Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Biology, or a related discipline, is required.
We offer
Training in the methods described above, and on the use of the instruments described above will be provided. SCALE provides a stimulating environment for basic science as well as ample opportunities for training and ongoing education in diverse scientific methods and skills (https://scale-frankfurt.org/scale-it/).
Please submit a single PDF containing: A cover letter describing your research interests, past experience, and motivation for applying; your CV, as well as your MSc diploma, transcript of records, and names and contact information for two references. Applications should be addressed to email and received no later than 31st January, 2026.
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