3-year Postdoc position available from January 2026

Postdoc Position: Neuropeptidergic Co-transmission & Neural Circuit Function in Caenorhabditis elegans

A postdoctoral position is available in the Gottschalk Lab at Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany, in collaboration with Dr. Aoki, Chinese Institute for Brain Research (CIBR), Beijing, to investigate the intricate mechanisms of neuropeptidergic co-transmission, dense-core vesicle (DCV) heterogeneity, and multisensory integration. The project employs the nematode C. elegans as a powerful model system for uncovering fundamental neurobiological principles: How can a single neuron use co-transmitted neuropeptides to encode and regulate complex behaviors? Our recent findings point towards a model where specific neuropeptides are sorted into distinct DCV subpopulations, allowing for independent regulation and release (Aoki et al., 2024, Nat. Commun. 15: 9504; doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-53899-7). You will dissect this mechanism and its role in behavior by focusing on two key neuropeptides, FLP-1 and NLP-10, in the context of locomotion control, with these key objectives: 1) Elucidating how NLP-10 and FLP-1 are sorted into distinct DCV populations, 2) Visualizing neuropeptide release, 3) Deciphering molecular mechanisms by which autocrine FLP-1 signaling through the DMSR-7 receptor suppresses NLP-10 release, 4) Mapping behavior-specific neural circuits differentially modulated by NLP-10 and FLP-1, and 5) Understanding multisensory integration of two conflicting sensory inputs, to enable appropriate behavioral decisions. 

We are seeking a highly motivated and independent candidate with a recent Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Cell Biology, Genetics, or a related field. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in the following areas:

• C. elegans neurobiology and behavior.
• Molecular biology and genetics (e.g., CRISPR/Cas9, cloning).
• Live-cell imaging and quantitative microscopy, optogenetics.

Candidates with a proven track record of productivity and a passion for fundamental neurobiological discovery are strongly encouraged to apply.

We Offer:

• A, three-year position in a supportive and collaborative research environment.
• State-of-the-art facilities for microscopy, optogenetics, molecular biology, and behavioral analysis.
• A challenging and innovative project with high potential for high-impact publications.
• Mentorship focused on career development.

For more information, see lab website: www.uni-frankfurt.de/69793125

Please submit a single PDF containing: A cover letter describing your research interests, past experience, and motivation for applying; your CV, including a list of publications; names and contact information for three references. Applications should be addressed to a.gottschalk@em.uni-frankfurt.de and aokiichiro@cibr.ac.cn no later than Nov. 30^th, 2025.

BSc and MSc Thesis work

Please contact Alexander Gottschalk to inquire about BSc and MSc thesis work.

Internship in the lab

Duration usually 6 weeks, on request

Prof. Dr. Alexander Gottschalk
phone +49-(0)69-798-42518
a.gottschalk@em.uni-frankfurt.de