Tätigkeit im wissenschaftlichen Bereich

Postdoc on advanced imaging of morphogenesis

From 1st November 2025, the Panfilio Lab has an opening for a three-year postdoc to work on an HFSP-funded project on comparative heart development in insects.

How does the initial heart tube form, and with which mechanical or scaling constraints in different species?

Our project "Mechanical and morphological evolution of the insect heart" will include interdisciplinary and international collaboration (spanning Germany, UK, Chile, and Singapore), at the interface of evo-devo and biomechanical modeling [project link].

The Panfilio Lab’s primary research focus for the project is on comparing inter-tissue interactions in embryos that differ in egg size, starting heart geometry, and configuration of the neighboring extraembryonic tissues. We primarily investigate the model species Tribolium castaneum (the flour beetle) and Oncopeltus fasciatus (the milkweed bug), which will be compared with other species in the collaborating labs.

We are looking for a scientist who is keen on comparative morphogenesis, international and interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced imaging (acquisition and analysis). There will be extensive opportunity to conduct live imaging and functional investigations, including with our new light sheet and spinning disc confocal systems (including laser ablation). There is also flexibility to shape analyses according to your own interests and expertise.

The applicant should have: (1) a Ph.D. degree and at least one first-author publication in a relevant field, (2) strong English skills (German is advantageous), and (3) a genuine enthusiasm for our research topics and willingness to fully participate in the collaboration, including international travel to the other participating labs. A strong grounding in developmental genetics and fluorescence microscopy is expected. Highly desired are experience with insects and/or advanced techniques such as: live imaging of embryos, light sheet microscopy, spinning disc confocal microscopy, laser ablation assays, 3D and 4D imaging reconstruction and quantitative analyses, RNAi, microinjection and microdissection.

The lab is based in the Institute for Biology and has active research links with neighboring developmental, evolutionary, and insect labs. The University of Hohenheim is a research-intensive university in the south of Stuttgart. Generously equipped research facilities, a baroque castle, and extensive parks characterize the campus. There is a strong focus on the natural sciences, agricultural sciences, biodiversity and conservation, and plant-insect interactions.

Salaries are paid according to the standard German pay scale for the public sector (E13, 100%, for three years from 01.11.2025), with health insurance and social benefit contributions. The University of Hohenheim is an equal opportunity employer. Women and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Informal enquiries to discuss the position are welcome: just contact Kristen directly (k.panfilio @ uni-hohenheim.de).

Bewerbungsfrist : 14.08.2025

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