Our profile:

Quantitative and qualitative understanding of cellular and molecular information processing is the final goal of our research. In this quest, we focus on generation and processing of mechanical signals by cells. The mechanically active cellular structures cytoskeleton and cell membrane are at the core of our work. We use and develop cutting-edge methods of cell biophysics and cell biology. Scientists from different disciplines work together to tackle the associated interdisciplinary challenges.

Your tasks:

You will be part of the vibrant DFG-funded graduate school Mechanobiology in Epithelial 3D Tissue Constructs. In project B1 “3D-mapping of epidermal tissue mechanobiology during growth and upon wounding” simplified epidermal equivalents are investigated. This novel cell culture model of the epidermis is unique in as much it enables long term application of physiologically relevant mechanical stretch signals while cells exhibit layer specific morphology and properties that closely resemble the in vivo situation. You will investigate the mechanisms underlying this layer-specific behavior. You will explore adaptation (e.g. altered adhesions, cytoskeleton, nuclear deformation) to repetitive external stretch to understand how the skin adapts to mechanical stress thereby affecting tissue growth, layer differentiation and wound healing. Core techniques are cell culture, mechanical stretch, life cell imaging, and transcriptome analyses. You must meet the requirements for Doctor of Sciences (Dr. rer. nat.) candidates at Bonn University.