Are you passionate about science, innovation, and reducing animal testing in research? The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) in Germany has opened an exciting funded opportunity for a Doctoral Candidate (PhD student) to join a cutting-edge project focused on the development of alternative methods to animal testing.
What’s This About?
This PhD position is part of a collaborative project between BfR in Berlin and the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (TiHo). The goal is to develop a human neurosphere disease model without the use of lab animals and test new neuroprotective drugs. The position offers a unique combination of advanced lab research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and practical impact on health and animal welfare.
What Will You Do?
You’ll be involved in:
- Developing and testing animal-free 2D and 3D cell culture models from human cells.
- Working with cutting-edge technology like multi-electrode arrays to assess neural activity.
- Participating in lab experiments in both Berlin and Hannover.
- Publishing your results and presenting at conferences.
- Supporting lab training for students.
Funding & Duration
- Fully funded PhD (part-time, 65% working hours, approx. 25.35 hrs/week).
- Pay grade: E13 TVöD (Berlin) and TV-L 13 or TV-L 14 (Hannover) depending on qualifications.
- Duration: 3 years (1.5 years in Berlin and 1.5 years in Hannover).
- Includes access to a structured doctoral training program.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, you must:
- Hold a Master’s or Diploma in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacology, or Toxicology.
- Have experience with 2D/3D cell cultures.
- Be fluent in German and English.
- Be enthusiastic about research, independent, creative, and a team player.
Bonus if you:
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Have experience with stem cells, microscopy, or toxicology.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the PhD position in alternative methods to animal testing at the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment is August 13, 2025.