- Department/Institute:
- Center for Neuropathology
- Subject area:
- Neuroscience/Neuropathology/Neuropharmacology
- Name of supervisor:
- Prof. Dr. Jochen Herms/Dr. Yuan Shi
- Number of open position:
- 2
- Project title:
- From molecules to imaging: explore how glia shape synapses in Alzheimer's and Lewy body dementia
- Project time:
- Full Docotoral Study-Model: 36 or 48 months
Sandwich-Model: 12 or 24 months - Language requirements:
- good knowledge of the English language proficiency with a minimum of: IELTS score: >=6.5, TOEFL score >=95 or EU level of B2
- Academic requirements:
- We are seeking a highly motivated MSc graduate (f/m/x) in neuroscience, neuropathology, neuropharmacology, molecular medicine or a related field.
Proven experience in primary cell culture, immunoblotting, FACS sorting, animal surgery and confocal imaging is required.
Additional expertise in intravital multiphoton microscopy, 3D reconstruction tools or single-cell sequencing and analysis is advantageous but not essential.
A strong interest in microglia or glia-neuron interactions is expected.
We value curiosity, teamwork and clear scientific communication and offer the opportunity to contribute to a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment.
Project description:
Microglia actively survey synapses and remodel connectivity by eliminating dendritic spines. Our previous work showed that activation of the microglial translocator protein by benzodiazepines drives excessive synaptic engulfment and cognitive decline (Shi et al., Nat Neurosci 2022). We now focus on glial endozepines—endogenous peptides secreted by glia that act through pathways similar to benzodiazepines. This project will explore how neurons regulate glial endozepine signaling, how this pathway influences mitochondrial–lysosomal crosstalk and synaptic pruning, and whether these mechanisms are shared across Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia. Using cutting-edge intravital multiphoton/super-resolution confocal/STED imaging, and 3D reconstruction approaches (Shi et al., Neuromethods 2024), we aim to identify new therapeutic strategies targeting neuron–glia–synapse interactions in neurodegeneration.
To applicants: Please send following initial application documents to LMU-CSC Office before 15th December:
- Resume and Research Motivation Letter
- Certificate of Proficiency in English, equivalent to IELTS Test Academic 6.5 (no module below 6) or TOEFL IBT 95, is required
- Two letters of recommendation directly sent from your current Supervisors/Professors to LMU-CSC Office