Life Scientist (m/w/d)

The German Diabetes Center (DDZ), Leibniz Institute for Diabetes Research at the Heinrich Heine University (HHU) Düsseldorf is an interdisciplinary research institute that links basic and clinical sciences to improve prevention, diagnosis and therapy of Diabetes mellitus and its complications. The Junior Research Group Crosstalk (head: Dr. Melanie Mittenbühler) at the Institute for Clinical Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry focuses on how inter-tissue communication impacts energy balance and metabolic health. We are seeking a talented and highly motivated

Postdoctoral Fellow (PhD/Dr. rer. nat., m/f/div., E13 TV-L 100%) to join our research group. Our group investigates how skeletal muscle acts as an endocrine organ and communicates with other tissues through secreted signaling molecules, particularly myokines. In the ERC Starting Grant project MYOSCAN, we systematically investigate how exercise and age-related muscle loss alter the skeletal muscle secretome. We aim to identify novel exercise-sensitive myokines and define their roles in sarcopenia, metabolic disease, and cancer biology. A central question is whether muscle-derived factors promote or suppress tumor growth and how these signaling pathways can be therapeutically targeted.

PhD in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, physiology, exercise science, metabolism, cancer biology, or a related field

Strong expertise in at least one of the following areas: proteomics/mass spectrometry, secretome analysis, cell biology, molecular signaling, metabolic research, or cancer biology. Experience in working with mouse models is preferred

Scientific curiosity, initiative, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Excellent written and spoken English skills

Experience in supervising students or doctoral researchers

We provide a fully funded postdoctoral position within an excellently supported ERC Starting Grant project, an exciting, dynamic and international working environment, and a structured and coherent mentoring and training program. You will be able to learn state-of-the-art methodologies in a team of young scientists. Initially, the position is to be awarded for 2 years starting from 01.03.2027 or later. An extension of the contract period is envisaged. The employment contract is governed by TV-L in its current version for North Rhine-Westphalia, including the special regulations regarding the scientific area. The salary is based on qualification and experience, according to TV-L.

Females are especially encouraged to apply, and in the case of equal qualification, handicapped persons will be given preference. The German Diabetes Center is committed to family-friendly working conditions and equal gender policy. Since May 2011, the DDZ is a “Career and Family” audit-acknowledged center. The provisions of § 7 no. 1 of the Act on Part-Time Work and Fixed-Term Employment are taken into account.