GRK 3102:  Molecular tuning of neuronal communication - NeuroTune

• Subject Area: Neurosciences
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 536981017

Information processing by the nervous system is based on communication between neurons and their partner cells. While different neuronal communication pathways vary significantly in signaling distance and speed, they also share a common feature: they are adjustable. This important property enables signal transfer to be tuned in an activity-dependent manner and in response to changing physiological demands. The planned Research Training Group (RTG) NeuroTune will study molecular mechanisms that modify the way information is transmitted and received by neurons. By investigating different communication pathways, the synergistic goal of this collaborative initiative is to identify general structural and functional plasticity principles and to uncover molecular adaptations specific to species, cell types, and signaling modes. The Research Programme will combine work on different forms of neuronal communication in both mouse and fly peripheral and central nervous systems. In addition to overlapping biological research topics, the shared use of state-of-the-art technologies, such as high-resolution microscopy, will provide a lively interaction platform for the RTG members and a driving force for innovation. We have assembled a core team of ten investigators with complementary expertise in cellular signaling mechanisms, who will supervise the doctoral researchers in five interconnected tandem projects. As part of the dynamic Neuroscience environment in Leipzig, the doctoral researchers will benefit particularly from the interdisciplinary competence of the NeuroTune members, who represent the Faculty of Life Sciences and the Medical Faculty. This collaborative spirit, woven into the fabric of the programme, distinguishes the RTG from traditional pathways to a doctoral degree in medicine or life sciences and will provide doctoral researchers with an understanding of how basic research and translational research are tightly interconnected. The Qualification Programme combines innovative mentoring with highest quality training in neuroscience theory and practice. Together with individually tailored Personal Development and Data Management Plans, thesis work in life sciences and medicine will be promoted without prolonging project duration. International scientific exchange and networking are core themes of the Qualification Programme. Correspondingly, the doctoral research projects are supported by a line-up of established international collaborations, an ongoing scientific engagement with Mercator fellows in and outside Germany, and include extended research visits to partner labs abroad. These opportunities deliver an ideal preparation for the international job market and successful careers in medicine and science.

• DFG Programme: Research Training Groups
• Applicant Institution: Universität Leipzig
• Spokesperson: Professor Dr. Robert J. Kittel
• Participating Researchers: Professor Dr. Robert Fledrich; Professor Dr. Stefan Hallermann; Professor Dr. Tobias Langenhan; Professorin Dr. Ines Liebscher; Dr. Kristina Lippmann; Privatdozentin Dr. Mareike Selcho; Dr. Christian Simon; Professorin Dr. Ruth Martha Stassart; Professor Dr. Andreas Stephan Thum