PhD Position studying zebrafish energy homeostasis - Cologne Biocenter, Cologne, Germany
I am looking for a highly motivated student interested in pursuing a Ph.D. investigating the basic biology of energy homeostasis in zebrafish.
Decades of research have provided us with a good grasp of the basic biology and endocrinology of how mammals utilize energy obtained from food. However, while the basic building blocks are conserved across all vertebrates, their functional consequences appear to vary between species. For example, while mutations in Leptin or it’s receptor in mammals leads to morbid obesity, zebrafish do not share this phenotype. The successful candidate will join a junior, independent research group at the University of Cologne in Germany. The research will focus on the phenotypes and underlying mechanisms of a collection of mutant and transgenic zebrafish lines around the leptin and melanocortin signaling systems. I am looking for highly motivated candidates with a solid foundation in genetics, molecular biology and / or animal behavior. Previous experience with zebrafish is desired but not mandatory.
For further reading on the topic please see the recent Frontiers special issue I edited "https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/4907/comparative-studies-of-energy-homeostasis-in-vertebrates" or my website "http://www.zoologie.uni-koeln.de/michel.html?&L=1"
The Cologne Biocenter offers an excellent scientific environment for conducting research. In the last round of the German Excellence Initiative Competition of the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG), the University of Cologne has been awarded the status of a “University of Excellence”, and we are associated with the Excellence Cluster for Ageing-associated Diseases (CECAD) and the Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (DMMC). The Cologne Biocenter is located in the center of Cologne, a vibrant and multicultural city at the heart of Germany.
The University of Cologne is an equal opportunity, affirmative action and diversity supporting employer. Handicapped persons will be given preference to other equally qualified applicants. Applications from women are particularly welcome and will be preferred in case of equal qualification and capacity.
To apply, please email your detailed CV, research interests and names of two to three references to
Maximilian Michel