1 ERC funded Postdoc Position (f/m/d) in Circuit Neuroscience

The Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association aims to transform tomorrow’s medicine through our discoveries of today. At locations in Berlin-Buch, Berlin-Mitte, Heidelberg and Mannheim, our scientists collaborate across disciplines to unravel the complexities of disease at the systems level – from molecules and cells to organs and entire organisms. Through strong academic, clinical, and industry partnerships, as well as global networks, we translate biological insights into innovations for early detection, individualized therapies, and disease prevention. Founded in 1992, the Max Delbrück Center is home to a vibrant community of 1,800 people from more than 70 countries.

The Poulet lab

Our long-term goal is to identify neural mechanisms of sensory perception. We investigate thermo-tactile perception in the mouse forelimb somatosensory system. A mechanistic understanding of sensory perception requires an integrated approach. We therefore combine cell-type specific electrophysiological and optical recordings and manipulations to record and manipulate neural activity in the behaving mouse. The MDC provides state of the art research facilities, a lively neuroscience cluster and the opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary environment of research excellence. For more information, please visit

Are you interested in exploring how the body and brain interact? We are looking for motivated and collaborative postdoctoral researchers who are fascinated by the mechanisms of sensory perception. We have recently identified some of the key neuronal circuits involved in thermal perception (Milenkovic et al., Nat Neuro, 2014; Vestergaard and Carta et al., Nature 2023; Bokiniec et al., Cerebral Cortex, 2023; Schnepel et al., Curr Biol., 2024) and are now seeking a talented postdoc for our European Research Council (ERC)-funded project WarmBodies. This exciting project aims to understand the link between the neuronal circuits controlling our core body temperature and those involved in thermal perception. You will work closely with other members of our motivated and diverse team in a vibrant and collaborative environment.

Job Description

• Conduct experimental research
• Analyze and present research data
• Participate in national and international conferences
• Write and publish scientific manuscripts
• Collaborate and exchange ideas with other team members

Requirements

• Experimental expertise in electrophysiology, calcium imaging, optogenetics, animal behavior is preferred, but we are interested in applicants with different backgrounds
• Background in data analysis, image processing, physics, engineering are strongly encouraged to apply
• Collaborative and enthusiastic attitude to science
• Excellent communication skills

We offer

• international working environment with communication in English and German
• interesting career opportunities and a range of opportunities for further qualification and training
• Compatibility of family and career certified by the workandfamily audit (“berufundfamilie audit”)
• Support for "New Berliners" through the MDC Welcome & Family Office

You also benefit from:

• a remuneration in accordance with the collective agreement for the federal public service (TVöD-Bund), including additional company pension schemes
• a secure job
• flexible working hours and childcare support
• the possibility of mobile working
• an idyllic green campus, which is easily accessible by bicycle, public transport or car
• free use of Nextbike from the Buch S-Bahn station to the campus
• Subsidy for the job ticket as well as discounts in the campus canteen
• On-campus health and fitness center
• additional health benefits such as flu vaccination, eye test, ergonomics advice at the workplace

Facts & figures

Workplace

MDC Berlin-Buch

Salary

Remuneration will be according to the TVöD Bund, depending on the personal requirements, fee group 13.

Desired starting date

November 01, 2025

Limitation

Fixed Term
Fixed Term The position is limited to 2 years, with the option of an extension.

Team

AG Poulet

Application Period

October 27, 2025

Employment volume

Full Time
39h/week

Please get in touch with any questions

Janin Bergmann
AG Poulet
[email protected]