PhD Position (f/m/x) in Applied Vascular Research Full-time

PhD Position in Applied Vascular Research

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 Helmholtz Institute for Metabolic, Obesity and Vascular Research (HI-MAG) at the University of Leipzig aims at uncovering the molecular underpinnings of metabolic, obesity and vascular disorders to enable precision therapies. HI-MAG is part of Helmholtz Munich.

A fully funded PhD position is available in the Applied Vascular Research Group at HI-MAG, Helmholtz Munich (based in Leipzig, Germany). The project focuses on vascular remodeling and endothelial phenotypes in cardiometabolic disease using a translational approach combining large animal models (pig) and clinical human vascular samples.

Your Tasks

The tasks include:

• Design and perform molecular and cellular experiments to characterize vascular cell states in cardiometabolic disease using translational models and human vascular samples
• Apply advanced omics technologies, including single-cell sequencing (scRNA-seq, scATAC-seq) and spatial transcriptomics, to study vascular biology at high resolution
• Integrate and analyze multi-omics datasets using bioinformatic approaches to identify regulatory mechanisms and candidate disease drivers
• Present research findings at scientific meetings and contribute to publications in international peer-reviewed journals

Your Profile

The profile includes:

• MSc (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Bioinformatics, or a related field
• Strong background in molecular and cellular biology
• High motivation, ability to work independently, and excellent communication skills in English
• Interest in translational and interdisciplinary research

Desirable qualifications:

• Experience with R or Python and interest in computational data analysis
• Experience with single-cell technologies, omics data analysis, or large animal models
• Background or interest in vascular or cardiometabolic biology

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.”

Benefits

The benefits include:

• 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 Olga Bondareva, olga.bondareva@helmholtz-munich.de, 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.

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

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.

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.