PhD student postion (m/f/d)
The research group of PD. Dr. Thomas Blank, Institute of Neuropathology, Cellular and Molecular Neuroimmunology Group, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg offers a PhD position (TV-L, 65%), starting from February/March 2026, for a project on “The impact of defined gut metabolites on CNS function”.
The gut microbiota has been shown repeatedly to play an important impact in brain health and illness. Recent experimental and clinical investigations reveal that the makeup of the gut microbiome, which works as a crucial regulator of immunity and metabolism, has a significant influence on age-related dementia. Our lab's research goal is to better understand the relationship between the gut microbiota, its metabolites, and the aging brain. This study paradigm will allow for the development of innovative treatment techniques to address the clinical symptoms of dementias such as Alzheimer's.
Gut-to-brain communication may occur via metabolite synthesis by gut-resident bacteria. Indeed, we were able to demonstrate that metabolites originating from the gut microbiome have an impact on brain function by influencing neuronal and microglial activity. Our primary goal is to examine how metabolites generated by gut bacteria alter brain function, resulting in cognitive impairment.
We offer:
- access to cutting-edge methods including metabolomics, proteomics, flow cytometry analysis, in-vitro immune cell culture, transcriptomics, histology and high-resolution microscopy
- highly collaborative work and interaction with international research groups
- clear translational angle with a focus on age-related cognitive decline
- interdisciplinary environment at the interface of neuroscience, immunology, microbiology, and metabolism
The highly motivated PhD student will design and conduct research projects on how defined gut microbiota–derived metabolites affect brain function and cognition in aging and dementia. This includes planning and running experiments in relevant model systems, working with both animal and human samples, analyzing and interpreting the resulting data, and communicating the findings through presentations and scientific publications.
A suitable candidate should have a strong academic background in life sciences or a related field (e.g. neuroscience, immunology, microbiology or molecular biology) and genuine interest in the gut–brain axis and dementia research. They should bring prior hands-on laboratory experience, solid basic knowledge of experimental and data analysis methods, good communication skills in English, and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team.
If you are interested in applying, please submit your CV, a compelling motivation letter, and at least one reference letter. Complete your application by uploading all required documents through the "Apply now" button.
Questions? Then feel free to send us an E-Mail.
PD Dr. Thomas Blank
Thomas.blank@uniklinik-freiburg.de