The Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology (Leibniz-HKI) is seeking an enthusiastic Ph.D. student to join the Microbiome Dynamics (MBD) department under Prof. Dr. Gianni Panagiotou. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of the gut microbiome, diet, and the immune system using state-of-the-art computational methods.
Doctoral Researcher Position in Metagenomics at Leibniz-HKI, Germany
Position Overview
| Job Attribute | Details |
| Designation | Doctoral Researcher (Ph.D. Student) |
| Research Area | Metagenomics, Computational Microbiome Research, Systems Biology |
| Location | Jena, Germany |
| Duration | Initially limited to 4 years |
| Employment Type | Part-time / Permanent employee |
| Salary | Paid according to German TV-L (Public Service Salary Agreement) |
| Application Deadline | August 6, 2026 (Late applications may be considered until the position is filled) |
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Degree: Master’s degree in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Systems Biology, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- Technical Skills:
- Knowledge and experience analyzing metagenomics, untargeted metabolomics, or other high-throughput biological datasets.
- Proficiency in statistical methods within biological systems.
- Programming experience in languages such as Python, R, Perl, or C++.
- Soft Skills: Strong collaborative skills and an interest in working across boundaries in an international, multi-disciplinary team.
Job Description & Mission
- Conduct research at the interface of the gut microbiome, diet, and the immune system to investigate the role of gut bacteria in diseases such as cancer, metabolic disorders, aging, and infections.
- Computationally integrate multi-omics datasets from both microbial communities and hosts to uncover the systemic impact of gut bacteria on human physiology.
- The specific project focus will be tailored to the selected candidate’s skills and interests while aligning with major funded consortia (e.g., MiCCrobioTAckle, PerMICCion, FOODGUARD).
How to Apply
Complete applications must be submitted in English through the Leibniz-HKI online application system. Your application package should include:
- A comprehensive Cover Letter
- A CV including a complete list of publications (if any)
- A brief Statement of Research Experiences
- Study Certificates / Transcript of Records
- Contact addresses of two potential referees
Contact Person:Prof. Dr. Gianni Panagiotou(+49 3641 532 1759)








