DZNE is a world-leading, internationally oriented center for cutting-edge research into diseases of the nervous system. With its outstanding research personalities and state-of-the-art infrastructure, it offers the best conditions for publications and results at the highest level.

Around 1,200 employees at 10 locations in Germany are working together on new approaches to better understand and effectively combat diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and ALS.

That is our goal - maybe soon yours too? Become part of the DZNE and support us in realizing our research strategy!

Postdoctoral Scientist Immune diversity and Brain Health (f/m/x)

Code: 1306/2024/4

We are looking for an ambitious researcher with experience with immunology and a keen interest in large scale data analyses to join our Population Health Sciences group at the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) in Bonn.

We investigate causes and biomarkers of neurodegenerative and other ageing related disorders, with the ultimate goal of enabling personalized disease prevention. Our research is primarily based on the Rhineland Study, a prospective cohort study that emphasizes deep phenotyping. The study currently includes more than 11.000 participants at baseline, follow-up data is already available from nearly 5.000 participants, and further data collection is ongoing. Available clinical data include detailed structural and functional brain imaging, cognitive and neurological assessments, cardiovascular and anthropometric assessments, sensory systems tests, and medical history and medication use data. Available multi-omics data, both from baseline and follow-up, include (epi) genomic, transcriptomic, metabolomic, lipidomic, proteomic and microbiome data. A special research focus is on the role of the immune system in health and disease. To this end, we also included FACS analyses, immune stimulation assays and extensive cytokine profiling into our core protocols. We collaborate with multiple partners at Bonn University in the Cluster of Excellence "Immunosensation” and the Collaborative Research Center "Metaflammation”.

Your role in detail

In addition to contributing to ongoing projects, you will lead and develop your own research projects aligned with our group's research interests. This includes conducting and overseeing experiments in the laboratory, analyzing data, and preparing publications for peer-reviewed journals. Furthermore, you will actively participate in national and international conferences and engage with the scientific community. You will have the opportunity to supervise PhD and master's students and – if desired – to be involved in teaching.

Your qualifications

The ideal candidate will have a strong track record of excellence in research, outstanding analytical and communication skills, and a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic team-oriented environment. If you are passionate about making meaningful contributions to the field of non-communicable diseases and immunology, we encourage you to apply.

We offer

The position is initially limited to three years with the possibility of extension. We are looking for motivated individuals to help us address pressing health issues related to aging. As a member of our highly interdisciplinary and international team, you will have access to excellent scientific infrastructure with state-of-the-art research and computational facilities. You will have excellent publication opportunities and great potential for the further development of your own research profile. We actively encourage and support personal development, and offer employment, payment, and social benefits that are in line with other leading research institutes.

How to apply

Interested applicants should submit, as one single PDF file, a CV, transcripts, 3 references, and a cover letter describing your motivation to apply for this position, including research interest and experience, through the following link below

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

For inquiries about the position, please contact Prof Dr Dr Monique Breteler at population-research@dzne.de