Doctoral Research Associate (Research Assistant)

Position Overview

Marburg University is seeking a doctoral research associate for the Department of Medicine, Clinic for Ear, Nose and Throat Medicine, Head and Neck Surgery, within the research group of Prof. Dr. Reimann (experimental otology). The role is funded by third-party resources and begins as soon as possible. The position is limited to 3 years, subject to any prior qualification periods that may need to be counted. The appointment is part-time at 50% of the regular working time and follows pay grade E 13 under the Hessian public service collective agreement.

The advertised vacancy ID is fb20-0100-wmz-2026. The application deadline is 26.07.2026.

Research Context

This DFG-funded project focuses on the role of the transmembrane protein TMEM145 in outer hair cells of the cochlea. TMEM145 is believed to be essential for anchoring hair cells to the tectorial membrane via the so-called tectorial membrane attachment crowns, which are crucial for mechanoelectrical signal transduction in the inner ear. Previous work has shown that deletion of TMEM145 leads to hearing loss resembling that caused by known TM-AC mutations. The research is carried out in close cooperation with the Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Division of Neurophysiology, in the group of Prof. Oliver. The team has extensive expertise in molecular physiology of auditory hair cells.

Responsibilities

• Carry out scientific work within a research project in the field of molecular cell and sensory physiology.
• Teach and supervise seminars and practical courses for the Human Medicine and Human Biology degree programs.
• Investigate the function of TMEM145 in outer hair cells of the cochlea, with particular attention to tectorial membrane attachment crowns.
• Use advanced imaging methods, including super-resolution, fluorescence, and electron microscopy, to study hair bundle structure and protein localization.
• Examine molecular interactions between TMEM145 and established TM-AC components using biochemical assays and expression systems.
• Contribute independently to scientific work as part of the doctoral qualification process.

Requirements

• Completed university degree at the scientific level (Diploma, Master’s degree, or equivalent) in Biology, Biochemistry, or a related life science or natural science field.
• Interest in pursuing doctoral research in Human Biology is expected.
• Prior experience with at least one of the experimental methods mentioned above is desirable.

Offer and Benefits

• Intensive supervision and solid training in the methods used in the project.
• Access to modern, state-of-the-art technical equipment.
• Room for independent work and opportunities for personal development.
• Access to university sports programs.
• Support for early-career researchers through Marburg Research Academy (MARA), the International Office, and the university didactics unit.

Additional Information

The appointment is governed by Section 2(1) of the German Fixed-Term Academic Contracts Act (WissZeitVG). The university states that women are strongly encouraged to apply and will be given preferential consideration where legally applicable and qualifications are equal. Marburg University also supports work-life balance and notes that a reduction in working hours is generally possible. Applicants with disabilities, within the meaning of Sections 2(2) and 2(3) of SGB IX, will be given preference when equally qualified. Application and interview costs will not be reimbursed. Applications must be submitted by 26.07.2026.

Contact

Prof. Dr. Katrin Reimann
Phone: +49 6421-58 66478
Email: Katrin.reimann@staff.uni-marburg.de