PhD Candidate (f/m/x) - AI/ML Drug Discovery for Brain Diseases

PhD Candidate (f/m/x) - AI/ML Drug Discovery for Brain Diseases

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.

Full time. 39 hrs./week. Neuherberg near Munich. Partial Home Office possible.

The Institute of Computational Biology (ICB), as part of the Computational Health Center at Helmholtz Munich, is globally recognised for innovations in data analysis and modelling of biological systems and diseases, anchored at Helmholtz Munich and the Technical University of Munich. At our institute you will find a scientifically stimulating international environment. Together with renowned scientists and supported by an excellent infrastructure you will have the opportunity to make an important contribution for a healthier society.

The Theis Lab has a long-standing reputation for pioneering machine learning and AI methods in molecular biology, in particular on single-cell genomics. We are looking for a highly motivated PhD Candidate (f/m/x) in Machine Learning (ML) or Computational Biology to join a collaborative research project with the Fugger lab at the Oxford Centre of Neuroinflammation, focusing on the development of drugs that tame common brain diseases through the application of graph-based neural networks, deep learning, and optimal transport methodologies.

Your tasks

• Analyse disease mechanisms, facilitated by cutting-edge data from techniques like spatial transcriptomics and protein mass spectrometry
• Contribute to the development of graph-based deep learning and foundational modeling methodologies
• Identify and participate in designing the validation of disease targets by understanding tissue state changes and perturbation responses in peripheral blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and brain tissue from central nervous system disease patients, alongside extensive single-cell platform data
• Present your research at international meetings

Your profile

• Currently pursuing or recently obtained a Master's or equivalent degree in Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biology, or a related field
• Demonstrated proficiency in programming languages and workflows used in data science (e.g. Github, Python) and willingness to learn and use deep learning frameworks (e.g. PyTorch)
• Strong interest in contributing to the development of perturbation models, gaining an understanding of the complexities of neurological disorders, and contributing to effective management and treatment strategies
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team
• Excellent, demonstrated communication skills
• Demonstrated scientific curiosity, initiative, and learning agility

Desirable qualifications

• Proficiency in molecular biology and knowledge of modern experimental techniques
• Familiarity with analysing longitudinal biological samples and/or single-cell data analysis
• Familiarity with the target identification steps of drug development or previous experience working with perturbation data

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.

Benefits

• Scientific Training: Helmholtz Munich Graduate School
• Career counseling: Career Center for PhD candidates
• Scientific Resources: State‑of‑the‑art infrastructure and Core Facilities
• Health Promotion: Sports, company doctor, mental health initiatives
• International Staff Service: Support with the relocation and integration process in Germany

Interested in applying?

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Marco Uhrig ( ), who will be happy to help.

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

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.

• 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 Computational Biology
Ingolstädter Landstraße 1
85764 Neuherberg