PhD Candidate / Predoctoral Researcher in Neuroscience and Synaptic Physiology Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences in Austria

PhD Candidate / Predoctoral Researcher in Neuroscience and Synaptic Physiology at Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Austria.

This PhD opening is hosted by the Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, under the supervision of Univ.-Prof. Dr. Gerald Obermair. The project is embedded in an internationally oriented research environment at the Krems Campus and within the University Hospital Network of St. Pölten, Krems, and Tulln.

The successful candidate will join a research group studying synaptic function and calcium channel signaling in health and disease. The project focuses on α2δ proteins, auxiliary subunits of voltage-gated calcium channels that regulate synapse formation, synapse differentiation, and trans-synaptic signaling. Mutations in α2δ-related genes are associated with neurodevelopmental disorders such as epilepsy, autism, and schizophrenia.

The PhD work will investigate the role of α2δ proteins in neuronal differentiation and synapse formation using established neuronal cell culture models and novel phenotyping approaches. The project combines molecular and biochemical techniques, immunocytochemistry, fluorescence microscopy, electrophysiology, live-cell imaging, and in vivo analyses. In collaboration with project partners, automated high-content microscopy and AI/deep-learning-supported image analysis will be used to assess neuronal morphology and maturation, including dendrite length and branching, axon growth, synapse density, and neuronal network formation.

This position offers the opportunity to develop a broad methodological profile in cellular and systems neuroscience and to work in a collaborative, research-intensive environment. The PhD thesis will be conducted within the PhD program Mental Health and Neuroscience.

Eligibility highlights: completed Diploma or Master’s degree in the life sciences or a closely related field; experience in neuronal cell culture, fluorescence microscopy, electrophysiology, and/or synaptic function; basic knowledge of molecular biology, immunohistochemistry, bioinformatics, and statistics; strong motivation for neuroscience research; and excellent English.

Funding and contract: the role is a temporary part-time appointment at 30 hours/week, initially for three years with the possibility of a one-year extension. The minimum gross salary is €2,832.10 per month, paid in 14 installments per year.

Application deadline: 27 September 2026.

How to apply: apply online through the Karl Landsteiner University career portal and quote reference number 2632.