in Biomarker Research for Neurodegenerative Diseases in the laboratory of Dr. Öckl.

The Öckl lab at the Department of Neurology focuses on the discovery, validation and implementation of fluid biomarkers (CSF, blood) for neurodegenerative diseases inlcuding amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer´s disease, Parkinson´s disease and frontotemporal dementia to enable and improve early and differential diagnosis, prognosis, disease staging and monitoring of treatment effects.  We use a comprehensive toolbox of methods with different types of immunoassays (ELISA, Simoa, Ella) and also mass spectrometry for the development of novel biomarker assays and the study of established biomarkers such as NfL, GFAP or pTau in different biological samples. We are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and have good access to well-characterized CSF/blood samples from patients with different neurological diseases via the biobank of the Department of Neurology. The Oeckl lab is also associated to the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Ulm providing an excellent research infrastructure.


Your Tasks:

• Development and use of established immuno- (ELISA, Simoa, Ella) and activity assays for biomarkers in CSF and blood; i.e. active participation in experimental work, experimental design, data generation, data analysis and interpretation
• Study of biomarker changes in patient samples of different neurodegenerative diseases especially amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
• Presentation of results at progress report meetings and international conferences
• Prepare and write manuscripts for publication in international scientific journals

What we offer:

• Highly interesting up-to-date and clinically relevant research questions in a dynamic team
• State-of-the art instrumentation like Simoa, Ella, Exploris and competitive research infrastructure including the association to the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE, www.oeckllab.com)
• Payment according to TV-L (Baden Württemberg) and pension plan provided by your employer
• Support for pursuing a career with a work-family balance
• A variety of training programs that promote professional development
• Work place health promotion
• Various opportunities for recreational activities in the Ulm area 

Your profile:

• Master Degree in biochemistry, biology, molecular medicine, pharmacology or equivalent
• Strong background and understanding of protein biochemistry
• Excellent experimental and analytical skills and interest in assay development
• High interest in neurodegenerative diseases; experience in neurosciences is advantageous
• Team-oriented, independent and ambitious working style