PhD-position (m/f/d)- Institute of Human Genetics, Molecular Physiology

PhD-position (m/f/d) – Institute of Human Genetics, Molecular Physiology

We are recruiting a doctoral researcher at the Institute of Human Genetics, UKSH, at the Universität zu Lübeck. The PhD position will focus on experimental approaches to uncover mechanisms linking adipose tissue metabolism to metabolic disease. The position is fully funded for three years and is expected to start in February or March 2026.

Research Group Focus and Proposed Project

Dysfunctional adipose tissue, often resulting from chronic overnutrition or inflammation, causes lipids to accumulate in organs such as liver and muscle. This triggers insulin resistance and hormonal imbalance, ultimately contributing to metabolic diseases such as cardiovascular or fatty liver diseases. The new project aims to investigate the impact of metabolic activation of (dys)functional adipose tissue in‑vitro and in‑vivo in the context of metabolic health. Using human and mouse adipocyte cultures, gain‑ and loss‑of‑function approaches (e.g., siRNA, AAV) will be performed. In parallel, in‑vivo studies will be conducted in mouse models of obesity. Systemic and cellular energy metabolism will be assessed alongside molecular assays, OMIC analyses, and imaging to characterize the resulting geno‑ and phenotypes.

Research Environment

Professor Susanne Keipert has just begun her professorship at the Universität zu Lübeck in November 2025 and is currently building up her research group. This provides a unique opportunity to join a new, highly motivated team at an early stage. The group is part of the Universitätsklinikum Schleswig‑Holstein (UKSH), based at the Center of Brain, Behavior and Metabolism (CBBM) and affiliated with Precision Health in Schleswig‑Holstein (PHSH). These connections provide a highly collaborative and stimulating research environment.

What we offer

• Salary based on the German E13 TV‑L scale (65%) if terms and conditions under collective bargaining law are fulfilled
• Part‑time employment currently 25 hours/week
• A family‑friendly working environment with a commitment to improving work‑life balance
• A highly motivated team and an exciting project
• Additional UKSH benefits (see benefits at uksh.de)

Your profile

We are looking for a candidate who demonstrates curiosity, resilience, and a strong interest in metabolic research and holds a Master in Molecular Biology, Molecular Medicine, Nutritional Science, or related life sciences. Fluency in English (both spoken and written) and hands‑on experience in cell culture and molecular biology techniques are required. Interest and knowledge in analyzing big datasets (e.g., RNA‑seq data) is a strong advantage, and previous experience with metabolic phenotyping or animal experimentation is a plus.

Application

Your application should include a cover letter, CV, transcripts of records, and contacts of two referees. Please submit your application until indicating the reference number 27679 . For further information on the projects and positions, please contact Professor Susanne Keipert ( ).

#J-18808-Ljbffr