The research project studies the role of the cellular signalling molecule cGMP in an interdisciplinary team. cGMP is a “second messenger” for metabolism, development and growth, but also for protection and regeneration of sensory systems.

The PhD candidate will study interactions of the stress pathways and cGMP signaling with central auditory processing and autism spectrum disorders. Age- and noise-induced hearing loss will be considered.

The following questions will be addressed:

• Analyze the expression of molecular components of the cGMP signaling cascade (NO-GC/GC-A) during the development of hearing function and test pharmacological manipulation.
• Analyze how neuronal ion channels that are controlled by cGMP (BK channels) are involved in autism spectrum disorder.
• Analyze the influence of stress hormone receptors (MR/GR) on the cGMP signaling cascade (genetic deletion of MR/GR receptors in a mouse model).
• Analyze memory function in a model for impaired cGMP signaling including long-term potentiation, neuro-vascular coupling and functional gain after GC-A deletion.

The doctoral program is accompanied by a curricular program including general lectures and courses in neuroscience with a focus on neuro-sensory systems. The program expressly supports and recommends an international internship at our collaborative partner at the Tufts University in Boston, MA, USA (Prof. Michele Jacob), who is co-advisor of the doctoral thesis.

The position requires a MSc or a Diploma in Natural Science. The successful candidate bears a curiosity in neurosciences and is particularly interested in how sensory information is processed in the brain. The candidate will contribute significantly in designing, conducting and analyzing experiments.

The doctoral thesis will be supervised in a multi-disciplinary team. Molecular and histochemical techniques are established. In vivo testing for the hearing of laboratory animals require knowledge on neuronal information processing and sensory physiology. A Felasa B Course or equivalent as well as computer and mathematical skills are advantageous.