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

PhD student (f/m/d) | Cellular Resilience
Young Researchers
Bad Nauheim
Developmental and Evolutionary Biology & Genetics
Immunobiology and Infection Biology & Medicine
Physiology
Job Code: 2026_24
Job Offer from September 09, 2026
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.
The Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research in Bad Nauheim is an internationally renowned research institute. It conducts basic research primarily in the field of the cardiovascular system and organ biology. The institute currently comprises three departments, several independent research groups, and central scientific service groups. A total of approximately 380 people are currently employed at the institute.
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.
Your application
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.