The Faculty of Chemistry, research group BCI, has the following job opening: 
Research Position (PhD student) (m/f/d)
ID: Wiss26001
- starting: 01.04.2026
- part-time 65 %
- salary according to Remuneration level 13 TV-L
- fixed-term
The Department of Cell Biochemistry is seeking to appoint a doctoral or postdoctoral researcher to join the DFG-funded project “Novel Functions of C9ORF72 in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).” The project aims to identify previously unrecognized roles of C9ORF72 that contribute to the pathophysiology of ALS. The successful candidate will apply iPSC-derived motor neurons and apply state-of-the-art cellular and molecular biology techniques to address the research questions.
The project is led by Patrick Lüningschrör. The research group focuses on presynaptic autophagy and its contribution to motor neuron disease pathophysiology. The group utilizes a broad range of experimental approaches, including mouse models, iPSC-derived motor neurons, and neuromuscular co-culture systems.
Teaching (10 %):
Employment is conducive to scientific qualification and provides the opportunity for further academic development.
The application should include the following:
The project is led by Patrick Lüningschrör. The research group focuses on presynaptic autophagy and its contribution to motor neuron disease pathophysiology. The group utilizes a broad range of experimental approaches, including mouse models, iPSC-derived motor neurons, and neuromuscular co-culture systems.
Your Tasks
Research (90 %):
- iPSC culture and differentiation
- molecular biology techniques such as PCR, plasmid construction, RNA-isolation, cDNA synthesis, qPCR
- immunocytochemistry
- microscopy (including live-cell imaging)
- transcriptomics
Teaching (10 %):
- supervision of interns and bachelor's and master's theses (1 lesson per week)
Employment is conducive to scientific qualification and provides the opportunity for further academic development.
We offer
- salary according to Remuneration level 13 TV-L
- fixed-term (limited until 31.03.2028) (§ 2 (1) sentence 1 of the WissZeitVG; in accordance with the provisions of the WissZeitVG and the Agreement on Satisfactory Conditions of Employment, the length of contract may differ in individual cases)
- part-time 65 %
- internal and external training opportunities
- amount of health, consulting and prevention services
- reconcilability of family and working life
- constant place of work (Bielefeld) without travel activities
- flexible working hours
- 30 days holiday on the basis of 5 working days/week and additional days off on 24.12. and 31.12.
- good transport connection
- supplementary company pension
- collegial working environment
- open and pleasant working atmosphere
- exciting, varied tasks
- modern work environment with digital processes
- various offers (canteen, cafeteria, restaurants, Uni-Shop, ATM, etc.)
Your Profile
We expect
- scientific degree (master or equivalent) in biochemistry, biology, biotechnology or comparable field
- theoretical knowledge and practical experience in cell culture
- very good written and spoken English
- clear analytical thinking and capacity to take on novel topics
- ability to work independently and in a team
- excellent communication skills
Preferred experience and skills
- theoretical knowledge and practical experience in molecular biological and biochemical techniques
- German language skills, both spoken and written
- experience in the following methods: cloning, RNA Isolation, PCR, gel electrophoresis, Western Blot
Application Procedure
We are looking forward to receiving your application. To apply, please preferably use our online form via the application button below.The application should include the following:
- letter of motivation including a statement of research interest (max. two pages)
- curriculum vitae
- two references
application deadline: 06.03.2026
Contact
Dr. Patrick Lüningschrör
0521 106-6918
patrick.lueningschroer@uni-bielefeld.de
Postal Address
Universität Bielefeld
Dr. Patrick Lüningschrör
Postfach 10 01 31
33501 Bielefeld
Dr. Patrick Lüningschrör
0521 106-6918
patrick.lueningschroer@uni-bielefeld.de
Postal Address
Universität Bielefeld
Dr. Patrick Lüningschrör
Postfach 10 01 31
33501 Bielefeld
Bielefeld University has received a number of awards for its achievements as an equal-opportunity employer and has been
recognized as a family-friendly university. The university welcomes applications from women. This is particularly true with regard
both to academic and technical posts as well as positions in information technology as well as the skilled crafts and trades.
Applications are handled according to the provisions of the state statutes on equal opportunity. Applications from suitably qualified
handicapped and severely handicapped persons are explicitly encouraged.
At Bielefeld University on request positions can be carried out with reduced working hours as long as this does not conflict with official needs.
