PhD Candidate (f/m/x) in Imaging Mass Spectrometry Full-time

PhD Candidate (f/m/x) in Imaging Mass Spectrometry

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.

Within Analytical Pathology (AAP) at Helmholtz Munich, we investigate tissues and organs as spatially organized metabolic and chemical landscapes using imaging mass spectrometry. The PhD project combines spatial metabolomics, spatial exposomics, and tissue morphology to understand systemic metabolic and hormonal processes as well as the biological and pathophysiological effects of exogenous chemical compounds.

The PhD project “Imaging Mass Spectrometry: Spatial Metabolomics and Spatial Exposomics of Systemic Metabolic Processes Analytical Pathology” covers the complete scientific process: from the independent development of hypotheses and experimental implementation to data analysis, functional interpretation, and publication.

Your Tasks

• Develop and investigate independent, hypothesis-driven research questions related to cross-organ metabolic and hormonal processes as well as chemical exposures
• Establish and apply imaging mass spectrometry approaches for spatial metabolomics and spatial exposomics in different tissues
• Link molecular distribution patterns with tissue morphology, physiology, and pathophysiology
• Integrate and critically interpret high-dimensional data to identify systemic relationships and generate new biological hypotheses
• Independently prepare scientific publications as part of a cumulative PhD thesis

Your Profile

• An excellent Master's degree or equivalent qualification in biochemistry, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, human biology, pharmacy, chemistry, or a related field
• Demonstrated ability to think scientifically, develop hypotheses, and conduct independent research
• A very good understanding of biochemical, physiological, or pathophysiological processes
• The ability to critically evaluate complex results, consider alternative explanations, and derive new research questions
• A strong interest in tissue morphology, mass spectrometry, and quantitative data analysis
• Scientific curiosity, sound analytical judgment, and excellent written and spoken English

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.

Managing Director Mike Frieser:

“We believe that diversity is the key to groundbreaking research and innovative solutions. Our flexible working models and remote options create a supportive environment for balancing work and family life. For us, contributing to a healthier society in such an inspiring workplace is truly meaningful.”

Get to know us

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 Prof. Dr. Axel Karl Walch, 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. 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

Your Application:

In your motivation letter, please use an independently conducted research project to describe your scientific question, your personal contribution, a major methodological or interpretative challenge, and the conclusion you derived from your work.

Selection will not be based solely on knowledge of individual methods. Particular emphasis will be placed on the demonstrated ability to identify and critically investigate scientific problems and to generate new knowledge from the results.

If you have obtained a university degree abroad, we will require further documents from you regarding the comparability of your degree by the time you start work at the latest. Please request the Statement of Comparability for Foreign Higher Education Qualifications as early as possible.

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) Research Unit Analytical Pathology Ingolstädter Landstraße 1 85764 Neuherberg