This PhD position is offered at the Department of Neurology, University of Münster, within the research group of Prof. Dr. Gerd Meyer zu Hörste. The group focuses on understanding human polyneuropathies and broader neurological diseases using advanced single cell and spatial transcriptomics technologies. Recent projects have utilized patient-derived specimens and basic models to investigate disease mechanisms, with notable publications in the field. The successful candidate will study mechanisms of peripheral nerve and brain border immunology, employing animal models and spatial transcriptomics, and will be integrated with the Biology in Context Core Unit. The position is part-time (65%) for three years, with salary according to TV-L E13. The research is wet-lab based, involving rodent experimentation, immunohistochemistry, RNA in-situ hybridization, and light microscopy. Experience in single cell/nuclei or spatial transcriptomics and immunological techniques such as flow cytometry is advantageous but not required. The group is international, and strong English communication skills are mandatory. Applicants with purely (bio-)informatics backgrounds will not be considered. The application deadline is December 3, 2025, and candidates should apply via the career portal, submitting a CV and cover letter. For further information, Prof. Gerd Meyer zu Hörste can be contacted via email.

The University of Münster (UKM) is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join the Department of Neurology, specifically the research group led by Prof. Dr. Gerd Meyer zu Hörste. The group is renowned for its work in neurobiology and neuro-immunology, utilizing both basic models and patient-derived specimens alongside cutting-edge technologies. Recent projects have focused on understanding human polyneuropathies through single nuclei and spatial transcriptomics, with the broader aim of applying these advanced techniques to unravel the complexities of human neurological diseases. The successful candidate will investigate mechanisms of peripheral nerve and brain border immunology, employing animal models and spatial transcriptomics as part of an established and collaborative research environment. The position is integrated with the Biology in Context Core Unit, offering access to state-of-the-art facilities and interdisciplinary expertise. Applicants should have hands-on experience with rodent experimentation and be knowledgeable about the legal requirements for animal research in Germany. Essential laboratory skills include immunohistochemistry, RNA in-situ hybridization, and light microscopy. While prior experience in single cell/nuclei or spatial transcriptomics is advantageous, it is not strictly required. Familiarity with immunological techniques such as flow cytometry is considered a plus. The group values motivation, a willingness to learn, teamwork, responsibility, organizational skills, reliability, and flexibility. As an international team, strong written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory. Please note that this is a wet-lab position, and candidates with purely (bio-)informatics backgrounds will not be considered. For further information or inquiries, applicants are encouraged to contact Prof. Gerd Meyer zu Hörste directly. Applications should be submitted via the DAAD application portal. This opportunity provides an excellent environment for developing expertise in neurobiology, neuro-immunology, and advanced transcriptomic technologies within a leading German research institution.