Founded in 2008, the Max-Planck-Institute for Biology of Ageing in Cologne is at the center of a globally unique network of research institutes in the field of aging research. Ageing is a universal process, yet the rate at which we age is highly individual. While most lives begin on a similar trajectory, they diverge over time due to environmental factors, especially energy supply. The department for “Systems Biology of Ageing” hosted by Dr. Zachary Scott Frentz (Frentz Research Group) investigates the metabolic roots of this variation. We study how organisms manage their energy budget to balance survival, growth, and repair. To support our dedicated team in ongoing research projects, we are seeking a highly motivated, full-time Master’s student to assist with essential tasks in our research group.

## Master’s student (m/f/d)

### Project description

Energy metabolism is central to cellular function and organismal ageing. Mitochondria play a key role in this process by converting chemical energy into usable cellular energy, with heat being a by-product of these reactions. Although this heat is usually considered to dissipate uniformly, localized metabolic activity could in principle lead to small but relevant temperature differences within cells. While temperature gradients are well characterized at the tissue and organismal level, it remains largely unexplored how metabolic activity generates such local temperature differences at the single-cell or subcellular scale.

The aim of this project is to investigate how individual mitochondrial membrane proteins, or defined protein complexes, contribute to the generation of local temperature gradients. The project will focus on the expression and purification of selected mitochondrial proteins, their functional reconstitution into a synthetic liposome-based cell model, and the use of biochemical enzyme activity assays. The student will work closely with and be guided by an experienced PhD student and will be embedded in an active research environment with established local and international collaborations in protein purification and proteoliposomal reconstitution. Program-embedded laboratory modules prior to the thesis start are possible.

### Your Qualifications:

- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, biophysics or a related field
- Strong interest in fundamental metabolic processes
- Practical experience with basic molecular biology and protein biochemistry techniques
- Experience in recombinant protein expression and protein isolation (highly advantageous but not mandatory)
- Experience in mammalian cell culture work and confocal microscopy (highly advantageous but not mandatory)
- Collaborative mindset and a high degree of self-organization
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Fluency in English (German is not required)

### Our Offer:

- Remuneration: 1,000 € per month for the duration of the Master’s thesis
- Excellent working atmosphere in a motivated, friendly team with comprehensive training
- Flexible working hours and a strong work-life balance
- Discounted lunches in our staff canteen
- Family-friendly work environment with parent-child room
- Fitness room and various regular occupational health programs, such as back-health courses and a health day
- Excellent public transport connections

The Max Planck Society aims to employ more people with severe disabilities. Applications from individuals with severe disabilities are therefore expressly welcome. The Max Planck Society is also committed to gender equality and diversity and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply.

### Does this opportunity interest you?

Then please submit your complete application documents by March 22, 2026, quoting reference number 03-2026. Applications should be submitted online only as a single PDF file via our application portal: [https://recruitingapp-2695.de.umantis.com/Vacancies/501/Application/New/1](https://recruitingapp-2695.de.umantis.com/Vacancies/501/Application/New/1). Please indicate your earliest possible starting date.

For further information about the institute and the scientific interest of the Frentz group, please click here: [https://www.age.mpg.de/en](https://www.age.mpg.de/en) and consult recent publications.