PhD - environmental toxicology of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) (m/f/d)
is available at the earliest date possible at the Pharmacological Institute of Heidelberg University.
Are you passionate about environmental toxicology and eager to unravel the effects of PFAS chemicals on aquatic organisms? Our newly founded junior research group in the field of tissue engineering at the Institute of Pharmacology at Heidelberg University is investigating PFAS at the interface of human and environmental toxicology - and is looking for a PhD student to study the mechanisms and effects of PFAS in the zebrafish embryo. In this interdisciplinary research project, we investigate the effects of PFAS at multiple biological levels, with a special focus on the cardiovascular and endocrine systems. Our goal is to identify PFAS-sensitive signaling pathways early on and help to develop novel biomarkers for toxicological risk assessment. By working at the intersection of human and environmental toxicology, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs) and drive the development of New Approach Methods (NAMs) — paving the way for a more sustainable and responsible management of environmental chemicals.
- Job-ID: V000013759
- Field of application: Pharmakologisches Institut
- Location: Heidelberg
- Start date: as of now
- Job Category: Science and teaching
- Working hours: Part time (65 %)
- Published: 04.02.2025
- Limitation:Temporary (3 years)
- Contract:TV-L
Field of Research and Methodological Focus
PFAS Toxicity and Underlying Mechanisms in Zebrafish Embryos
- Analysis of PFAS effects across different biological levels by combining molecular biology techniques (gene expression, metabolomics, transcriptomics) and histological methods (endocrine organs, eye histology)
- Physiological investigations of cardiovascular effects (heart rate measurements, circulation analysis, live imaging)
- Behavioral analyses to assess neurotoxicity and developmental impairments (swimming behavior, light response)
Development of Ecotoxicological Endpoints for PFAS Effects
- Application of current OECD fish test protocols to evaluate effects in aquatic model systems (OECD TG 236, Zebrafish FET Test)
- Investigation of endpoints for detecting neurotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, and endocrine disruption caused by PFAS
AOP Development and Interdisciplinary Research
- Investigation of causal relationships across different biological levels
- Support for the (further) development of Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs) in toxicology
Your Profile
We are looking for highly motivated graduates with a Master’s degree in Life Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Toxicology, Pharmacy, or a related field, who are enthusiastic about independent scientific work and can demonstrate practical teamwork skills. Applicants should have knowledge or previous experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Experience in fish husbandry, care, and working with zebrafish (both wild-type and transgenic lines)
- Familiarity with OECD test protocols, particularly OECD TG 236 (FET test) and other ecotoxicological fish tests
- Expertise in molecular biology and biochemical methods (gene expression analysis, metabolomics, transcriptomics)
- Experience in histological investigations and microscopic techniques (paraffin and cryo-histology, immunohistochemistry)
- Knowledge of endocrine organ analysis (thyroid, gonads), as well as neuronal and cardiovascular structures
- Experience in behavioral analysis (swimming behavior, light response)
- Understanding of Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs) in toxicology
- Independent and committed working style, as well as strong teamwork skills
- Very good proficiency in English, both written and spoken
We offer
- Exciting research on forward-looking topics with direct translational relevance
- Modern laboratory equipment and innovative technologies
- Interdisciplinary and networked collaboration with leading scientists and institutions in the fields of (environmental) toxicology and biomedicine
- Active participation in scientific events and conferences
- Access to targeted training in ecotoxicology, 3R, tissue engineering, biomedicine, cardiovascular research
- An excellent working atmosphere – we are a dynamic, young team of a newly established junior research group
- Collectively agreed remuneration, attractive company pension scheme (VBL)
- 30 days vacation
- Sustainable travel: job ticket
- Family-friendly working environment: cooperative arrangements for childcare, subsidy for child vacation care, advice for employees with relatives in need of care
- Wide range of health, prevention and sports offers
Contact & Application
Interested?
Please send your application documents (motivation letter, CV, relevant certificates) by March 15 to lisa.goelz@pharma.uni-heidelberg.de.
Pharmakologisches Institut
Dr. Lisa Marie Gölz
Im Neuenheimer Feld 366
69120 Heidelberg
lisa.goelz@pharma.uni-heidelberg.de
Note: The UKHD is subject to the provisions of the Infektionsschutzgesetz. Therefore, a valid measles immunity certificate is required for all persons employed at the UKHD.
The UKHD embraces diversity and values diversity.
Regardless of age, gender, sexual identity, disability, origin or religion, we offer everyone the same opportunities. If one gender is underrepresented in a particular area, we place particular emphasis on counteracting this imbalance. If they have the same aptitude, qualifications and professional performance, we give priority to people with severe disabilities when considering them for vacancies.
