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.
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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.
