PhD Student (gn*) Signal Transduction in Human Sperm
Fixed term of 3 years | Part-time with 65% | Salary according to salary group 13 TV-L | Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology | Job ID: 11721
We are UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility.
To meet our high standards every day, we are looking forward to your scientific expertise - ideally with you on board!
The position is located in the research group of Timo Strünker (Molecular Reproductive Physiology) and embedded in the DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre 1748 ‘Principles of Reproduction’. The CRC 1748 involves scientists of the University of Münster, the University Hospital, and the Max Planck Institute Münster as well as scientists of the RWTH Aachen. Our central objective is to elucidate the genetic, molecular and cellular mechanisms governing the formation and function of the testis, production and function of sperm, fertilisation, as well as early embryonic development - in both health and disease. To this end, we combine interdisciplinary research in molecular, structural and cell biology as well as in physiology, biophysics, epi/genetics, (bio)informatics, and multimodal data analysis.
In this project, we will elucidate the molecular mechanisms that enable sperm to sense their chemical and physical environment, with a particular focus on ion channels and signalling molecules, proteins, and pathways.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Analyse the composition, physiological function, and pathophysiological relevance of Ca2+-signalling pathways in human sperm
- Perform high time-resolution recordings of signalling events in the sperm flagellum using rapid-mixing techniques and fluorescent probes
- Dissect the interplay of flagellar ion channels during chemosensory signalling with pharmacological tools
- Participate in the Integrated Research Training Group ‘Reproduction.MS PhD-Training Centre in Translational Science’
REQUIREMENTS:
- Master’s degree in biology, biochemistry, pharmacy, physics, biomedicine, or other life sciences
- Strong interest in cellular signal transduction
- Experience in the use of fluorescent probes to study cellular signalling events
- Knowledge on basic pharmacological principles
- Motivation for scientific work and willingness to contribute to an interdisciplinary team
- Commitment to research in a translational setting
- Good English communication skills (spoken and written); German skills are advantageous
WE OFFER:
- State-of-the-art techniques, tools and experimental models for research
- Competitive, interdisciplinary, creative and international research environment with a track record of intense mutual collaboration
- Structured PhD-training programme with a wide range of professional development opportunities
- Salary according to tariff agreement, extra annual payment, and company pension plan (VBL)
- A respectful and appreciative work environment within a diverse team
BENEFITS
- Exciting Projects
- Professional Development and Training
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Part of Research Innovation
- Additional Benefits
For inquiries, please contact: Timo Strünker, timo.struenker(at)ukmuenster.de, T +49 251 83-58238
Apply now until 18 February 2026.
Please include:
- Letter of motivation (max. two pages)
- Summary of your master thesis (max. one page)
- Transcript and scanned copies of your degree certificates
- Two letters of recommendation
(*gn=gender neutral)
The University Hospital of Münster is one of the leading hospitals in Germany. Such a position cannot be achieved by size and medical successes alone. The individual commitment counts above all. We need your commitment so that even with little things we can achieve great things for our patients. There are many possibilities open for you so that you may develop with them.
Questions about how to apply? Click here
Equal opportunities are a part of our Human Resources Policy. UKM supports the compatibility of work and family life and is certified as "Family-friendly Company" since 2010. Applications of women are specifically invited. In the case of similar qualifications, competence, and specific achievements, women will be considered on preferential terms within the framework of the legal possibilities. Handicapped candidates with equivalent qualifications will be given preference. Due to legal requirements working with us is only permitted with complete vaccination against measles.
Universitätsklinikum Münster
Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude D5
48149 Münster
www.ukm.de
