PhD student (f/m/d) | Cellular Resilience Full-time NEW

PhD Student (f/m/d) | Cellular Resilience

The Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, W. G. Kerckhoff Institute, Bad Nauheim, Research Group Cellular Resilience (Group leader: Dr. Reymond Sutandy), invites applications for a PhD student (f/m/d), ref. nr. 2026_24.

The position is available for three years, starting on 1 January 2027. A later starting date can be arranged.

Job Description

Cells are constantly exposed to intrinsic and environmental stressors that challenge cellular homeostasis. To ensure survival, cells have evolved intricate stress response pathways that detect diverse insults and coordinate adaptive programmes. Understanding how these responses are integrated is a central challenge in cell biology, as their dysregulation contributes to numerous human diseases. Our group investigates how cells sense stress, mount adaptive responses, and restore homeostasis to maintain cellular resilience. We combine human cellular models with transcriptomic and proteomic approaches to uncover the molecular mechanisms that coordinate interconnected cellular stress response pathways. We are seeking a highly motivated and curious individual who is eager to contribute to cutting-edge research and grow with our team. The successful candidate will investigate how RNA-binding proteins shape cellular stress responses and adaptation.

Your Responsibilities

• Conduct an independent research project investigating the role of RNA–protein interactions in cellular stress responses
• Establish and develop next-generation sequencing and mass spectrometry-based proteomic approaches and analyse the resulting data
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific publications
• Present research findings at internal seminars and international conferences
• Stay up to date with relevant scientific literature

Your Qualifications

• A completed scientific university degree (Master's degree or equivalent; candidates close to completion are also encouraged to apply) in biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline, with a strong focus on molecular biology, cell biology, or biochemistry
• Hands-on experience in cell culture and molecular biology techniques, including cloning and CRISPR-Cas technologies, is highly desirable
• Previous research experience in RNA biology and/or high-throughput sequencing technologies would be a strong advantage
• Familiarity with programming languages such as R or Python for data analysis is beneficial
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Ability to work effectively in a team and think creatively is highly valued

Our Offer

• An opportunity to work in an international team
• Our researchers have the opportunity to work on various model systems by making use of the latest cutting-edge technologies
• Researchers are supported by state-of-the-art core facilities which offer services in next-generation sequencing, proteomics, bioinformatics, cytometry, microscopy, and small animal imaging

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.

If you are interested, please upload your complete application documents, containing a one-page motivation letter, your CV including a list of publications, copies of your diploma certificates, as well as two letters of reference in electronic form via our application portal. The deadline for applications is 20.10.2026.