The University Hospital Düsseldorf (UKD) is the largest hospital in the state capital and one of the most important medical centers in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW). The 9,300 employees at UKD and its affiliated companies are committed to ensuring that more than 45,000 inpatients receive treatment and 270,000 outpatients receive medical care every year. UKD represents international excellence in patient care, research, and teaching, as well as innovative and safe approaches in diagnostics, therapy, and prevention. Patients benefit from the intensive interdisciplinary collaboration of 60 clinics and institutes. The particular strength of the university hospital lies in the close integration of clinical practice and research, enabling the safe application of new medical approaches. The medicine of tomorrow is developed at UKD. Every day.

The Faculty of Medicine at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf is a leading center for cutting-edge research in medicine. Its research projects and collaborative programs in basic and clinical research are supported, among others, by the German Research Foundation (DFG), state and federal ministries, and the European Union.

The Institute of Biochemistry und Molecular Biology I is looking for a:

PhD-Student (m/w/d)

PhD position to investigate ubiquitin signaling pathways and cellular stress responses in humans
Part-time position 65% WAZ

The position is initially limited to two years on a part-time basis. This is a qualification position in accordance with the German Act on Temporary Scientific Contracts (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG, Section 2 (1)).

We are a young research group at the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I (Director: Prof. Dr. Andreas Reichert), supervised by Dr. Kai Mayor Völtzke. Our research focuses on fundamental mechanisms of cellular regulation and their importance for cellular function and adaptability.

This project aims to investigate the molecular principles of de-/ubiquitination as a regulatory hub in cell and mitochondrial biology, as well as its contribution to stress responses under various physiological and pathological conditions. Human cell models will be modified using CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing to generate defined mutant cell lines, which will subsequently be functionally characterized. In addition, the influence of the investigated factor on cellular responses to therapeutic interventions will be examined using established cell-based model systems. Advanced molecular biological methods will be employed to identify associated molecular networks and the underlying mechanisms. The project is embedded in a highly interdisciplinary research environment and may also include participation in teaching activities.
Planning, conducting, and analyzing molecular and cell biological experiments
Generation and functional characterization of human cell models created using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing
Investigation of mitochondrial function, stress responses, and metabolic regulation
Application of advanced proteomic methods to identify protein interaction networks
Analysis, interpretation, and presentation of scientific results
Participation in teaching activities

Completed Master’s degree (or equivalent qualification) in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline
Basic knowledge of molecular and cell biological techniques and a strong interest in experimental research
Experience with cell culture techniques is advantageous
Knowledge of mitochondrial biology or cancer biology is considered a plus
Excellent written and spoken English skills, as the work takes place in an international environment
Ability to work independently, strong analytical thinking skills, high motivation, and ability to work effectively in a team

A 25.675-hour weekly working schedule
Work in an internationally connected, interdisciplinary research environment
Access to modern laboratories and advanced core facilities
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