PhD student - Molecular Biology (m/f/d)

About Us

The Faculty of Medicine is one of the four founding faculties of the Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen. With its non-clinical facilities as well as its research and teaching area corresponding to the organisational units of the University Hospital, it is one of the largest medical training and research institutions in Baden-Württemberg.

About The Research Group

The Molecular Psychiatry research group investigates the genetic and epigenetic foundations of psychiatric disorders - with the long-term goal of developing improved therapeutic strategies. Our research is interdisciplinary, internationally connected, and highly relevant to clinical practice. As part of an innovative research project, you will study epigenetic mechanisms related to stress responses during hormonal transition phases in women - particularly during puberty and menopause.

PhD Position within IRTG 2804 (f/m/d)

Faculty of Medicine, Research Group Molecular Psychiatry, International Graduate School (IRTG) 2804, index number 7212

Part-time: 65 % | Limited: 3 years | Start of work: as soon as possible | Application deadline:

TV‑L i.d.R. E13 2

Tasks

• Recruitment and phenotypic assessment of pre-/post-pubertal girls (ages 8-17) and pre-/postmenopausal women
• Conducting a standardized stress paradigm, partly within an fMRI (MIST)
• Laboratory work in molecular biology and epigenetics
• Data analysis (including data from longitudinal cohorts)
• Comparative analysis using data from Sweden on premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) during a planned research stay (1-6 months) in Uppsala

Profile

• Completed university degree in Medicine, Molecular Medicine, Biology, Neuroscience or related disciplines
• Interest in translational research at the intersection of clinical practice and basic molecular research
• Solid knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, and epigenetics
• Experience with human subject research, behavioral testing, and/or neuroimaging
• High motivation, initiative, team spirit, and strong communication skills
• Good German language skills are an advantage (required for working with participants); however, we welcome candidates willing to learn German during the project
• Empathy and sensitivity in working with study participants, including minors

Benefits

• Modern Environment: Innovative university hospital, State-of-the-art technology, World-class international research, Excellent career prospects
• Research: Cutting‑edge research at the highest level, Support from PhD to professorship
• Career & Development: Structured onboarding, In‑house academy, Diverse training opportunities, Targeted career development
• Internationality: Cultural & generational diversity, Support through language courses , Integration programmes (nursing)
• Equal Opportunities & Diversity: Active promotion of equality, Internal committees as a point of contact, Network for conflict resolution