Master's Thesis (m/f/d)

Maintaining a precise balance of protein synthesis-proteostasis-is fundamental to neuronal health and function. In psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases, however, this balance is often compromised. Disruptions in translation accuracy, ribosome assembly, and protein degradation are increasingly recognized as critical factors that drive or exacerbate disease progression.
Join our research team in a voluntary and unpaid role for a 6-month Master's thesis to explore these mechanisms firsthand using patient-derived iPSC models. Your project will bridge the gap between structural ribosome characterization and functional protein dynamics in disorders such as Major Depression and Parkinson's Disease. By investigating ribosome abundance, cellular localization, and assembly-paired with advanced protein labeling to track the turnover rates of candidates like α-Synuclein-you will help uncover the molecular dysregulations of these conditions.

This project may include:
Disease Models: Maintenance of human iPSC-derived neuronal populations.
Ribosomal Characterization: Mapping ribosome abundance and assembly through a combination of qPCR, Western Blotting, and High-Resolution Imaging.
Protein Dynamics: Utilizing Non-canonical Amino Acid Tagging (Click-chemistry) and Immunoprecipitation (IP) to quantify protein synthesis and turnover rates.
Imaging & Analysis: Performing detailed immunostainings and quantitative image analysis to determine cellular localization of key markers.
Evaluating proteomics data to identify broader patterns of translational dysfunction across different disease models.

Enrolled in a Master's program (Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine, or similar).
A strong affinity for molecular biology and \"wet lab\" work, with prior experience in cell culture being a plus.
A meticulous and organized working style, combined with the curiosity to troubleshoot complex biological questions.
You are a distinct team player, characterized by high work motivation and good time management.

Working in the heart of Munich at Max-Weber-Platz with very good accessibility by public transport such as the subway, S-Bahn or tram
Self-realization through a varied and technically demanding job with interdisciplinary cooperation between various departments of the TUM Klinikum Rechts der Isar

If the candidates' suitability for the position in
question is equal, severely disabled applicants shall be given preference.
Interview-related costs can, unfortunately, not be reimbursed.