Postdoc (f/m/x) - 3D Epigenome Evolution in Human Brain Development

Postdoc (f/m/x) – 3D Epigenome Evolution in Human Brain Development

Full time, 39 hrs./week, Munich

At Helmholtz Munich, we develop groundbreaking solutions for a healthier society in a rapidly changing world. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation. Through strong partnerships, we accelerate the transfer of new ideas from the lab to real‑life applications, improving lives.

The Institute of Epigenetics and Stem Cells studies fundamental epigenetic mechanisms shaping development, evolution, and disease. We employ cutting‑edge technologies — from single‑cell multi‑omics and deep learning to live‑cell imaging and stem‑cell‑based organoid systems — to predict, observe, and manipulate epigenetic processes. Our lab and institute host an international team of researchers from more than 15 countries, and all work is conducted in English.

How did the human brain evolve its unique regulatory landscape?

The Bonev Lab at Helmholtz Munich is seeking an ambitious and creative Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/x) to explore this question at the intersection of single‑cell epigenomics, comparative genomics, and evolutionary neurobiology. This ERC‑funded project aims to uncover how gene regulatory networks evolved across human and non‑human primates during brain development, using novel single‑cell multiomics methods developed in our lab.

Our campus in Munich — one of Europe’s top centers for biomedical research — offers an outstanding infrastructure and close links with leading institutions such as LMU, TUM, and the Max Planck Institutes. Munich offers a vibrant international research community, excellent living conditions, and easy access to the Alps and major European cities.

Your tasks

You will lead an integrative project combining experimental and computational approaches to:

• Characterize the evolution of cis‑regulatory networks across primate brain development using novel single‑cell omics methods
• Apply deep learning models to integrate multi‑omics datasets and link epigenomic evolution to emerging phenotypes
• Use high‑throughput CRISPR perturbation screens in cerebral organoids to test the functional relevance of candidate elements

Your profile

• PhD in the life sciences or a related field
• Expertise in at least one (preferably two) of the following areas:
  • Single‑cell omics
  • Comparative genomics
  • Epigenetics
  • Brain development and evolution
• Strong publication record demonstrating scientific independence
• High motivation, creativity, and drive for scientific excellence
• Excellent communication skills in English (German is not required)

If you fulfill all the requirements, you may be eligible for a salary grade of up to E 13. Social benefits are based on the Collective Wage Agreement for Public‑Sector Employees (TVöD). The position has an (initial) fixed term until but may be extended under certain circumstances.

Benefits

• Career Development: Postdoc program, scientific training & career center with tailored offers
• Scientific Resources: State‑of‑the‑art infrastructure and Core Facilities
• Recreation: 30 days annual leave, flexi days, plus public holidays
• International Staff Service: Support with the relocation and integration process in Germany
• Health Promotion: Sports, company doctor, mental health initiatives

Interested in applying?

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Dr. Boyan Bonev, +49 89 2180‑71902, who will be happy to help. Informal discussions before applying are welcome.

Our recruiting is decentralized — your application will be reviewed directly by the specialist department in which you could work in the future.

More information about our application process.

Please send your application only via our online application tool and with the following documents:

• CV
• Cover letter
• Degrees/Diplomas/Certificates
• Contact details for at least two referees

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.

Learn more about diversity at Helmholtz Munich.

Our commitment

Helmholtz Munich
Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH)
Institute of Epigenetics and Stem Cells
Feodor‑Lynen‑Str. 21
81377 München

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