PhD candidate within the Energy Metabolism Unit (f/m/x)
Full time39 hrs./week
Neuherberg near Munich
We are Helmholtz Munich. In a rapidly changing world, we discover breakthrough solutions for better health.
Our research is focused within the areas of metabolic health/diabetes, environmental health, molecular targets and therapies, cell programming and repair, bioengineering, and computational health. We particularly excel in the fields of basic research, bioengineering, artificial intelligence, and technological development.
Through this research, we build the foundations for medical innovation. Together with our partners, we seek to accelerate the transfer of our research, so that laboratory ideas can reach society and improve people’s quality of life at the fastest rate possible.
This is what drives us. Why not join us and make a difference?
We are offering an opportunity for talented candidates (f/m/x) to embark on an exciting PhD project within the Energy Metabolism Unit at the Institute of Experimental Genetics (IEG). This 3-year position is part of the newly funded DFG consortium, Hypermet, which aims to investigate the metabolic impacts of skeletal muscle hypertrophy and atrophy on health in diverse metabolic conditions, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and cancer.
Our specific project will explore whether and how the genetic induction of skeletal muscle hypertrophy can mitigate the development of obesity and its associated comorbidities. We will also assess its potential as a co-adjuvant therapeutic strategy in combination with GLP-1-based drugs to enhance and sustain healthier weight loss outcomes. Develop and study animal models to investigate muscle hypertrophy and atrophy induced by nutritional changes or novel anti-obesity therapeutics. Examine and functionally analyze molecular mechanisms and pathways in various metabolically relevant organs
Are you passionate about metabolic research?
If you’re a highly motivated and committed individual, this is the perfect opportunity for you!
What do we offer?
- Excellent PhD program
- Comprehensive research training on metabolism research
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Opportunities for personal and professional development (seminars, courses, etc.).
Supervisors: Martin Hrabe de Angelis & Nathalia Dragano
Your tasks
- Animal Handling: Perform tasks related to mouse model management, including breeding, genotyping, and treatment administration
- Metabolic Phenotyping: Utilize a diverse range of metabolic assessment techniques, such as body composition analysis via NMR, indirect calorimetry, glucose and insulin tolerance tests, and other advanced methods
- Molecular Biology: Conduct molecular studies to uncover and analyze underlying pathways and mechanisms
- Data Analysis: Perform statistical analysis, visualize data, and prepare comprehensive results
- Scientific Communication: Present findings effectively through presentations, reports, and scientific writing
Your profile
- Master's Degree in a life science discipline (e.g. biology) or a related field, that qualifies the candidate to unroll as PhD student at the Technical University Munich
- Experience with mouse models is highly valued (certified laboratory animal science course), previous laboratory experience (molecular biology)
Desirable qualifications
- Basic data analysis and programming skills (e.g. Studio R) are appreciated
- Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English. Proficiency in German is a plus.
Benefits
- Scientific Training: Helmholtz Munich Graduate School
- Career counseling: Career Center for PhD candidates
- Recreation: 30 days annual leave, flexi days, plus public holidays
- Health Promotion: Sports, company doctor, mental health initiatives
- International Staff Service: Support with the relocation and integration process in Germany
Since 2005, we hold the TOTAL E-QUALITY award for exemplary action in the sense of an equal-opportunity organizational culture.
Helmholtz Munich is actively committed to diversity and inclusion in practice and is sustainably committed to equality.
The Diversity Charter has set itself the goal of promoting diversity in the world of work. By signing the charter, we commit ourselves to create an appreciative working environment for all employees.
This position provides the opportunity for you to build specialist knowledge whilst developing key professional experience, both of which will help you to make strides in your scientific career.
Remuneration and social security benefits are based on the German Collective Wage Agreement for Public-Sector Employees at Federal Level (EG 13 50% TV EntgO Bund). In addition, there is also the possibility of receiving an allowance if the applicable conditions are met. The position has an (initial) fixed term of three years but may be extended under certain circumstances.
We are committed to promoting a culture of diversity and welcome applications from talented people regardless of gender, cultural background, nationality, ethnicity, sexual identity, physical abilities, religion or age. Qualified applicants with physical disabilities will be given preference. If you have obtained a university degree abroad, we will require further documents from you regarding the comparability of your degree. Please request the Statement of Comparability for Foreign Higher Education Qualifications as early as possible.
Interested in applying?
- CV
- Cover letter
- Degrees/Diplomas/Certificates
- Contact details for at least two referees
