Doctoral Student Position in Molecular Metabolism and Precision Nutrition at DIfE, Germany

Summary

The German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke (DIfE), a member of the Leibniz Association, is inviting applications for a Doctoral Student position within the Department of Molecular Metabolism and Precision Nutrition. This research project focuses on the role of the circadian clock in metabolic regulation and the relationship between dietary patterns and glucose fluctuations in individuals with and without type 2 diabetes.

Designation

Doctoral Student (m/f/d)

Key Details

Research Area

The research focuses on Molecular Metabolism, Precision Nutrition, and the nutritional regulation of human metabolism, specifically investigating how the circadian clock and lifestyle factors influence 24-hour glucose fluctuations and metabolic responses to diet.

Location

Potsdam-Rehbrücke, Germany.

Eligibility/Qualification

• Education: MSc degree or Diploma in nutritional sciences, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related biological/medical field.
• Preferred Skills: Additional qualifications in bioinformatics, digital health, or similar fields.
• Experience: Proven experience in planning and conducting human studies and analyzing nutritional data.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in programming languages such as R or Python; experience in molecular biology lab work and bioinformatic analysis of omics data (e.g., transcriptome and lipidome).
• Language: Very high level of written and spoken English and German.
• Soft Skills: High motivation and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary, diverse research environment.

Scholarship Description

The successful candidate will contribute to a human study involving metabolic phenotyping. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting study coordination and examining participants.
• Processing blood and adipose tissue samples.
• Analyzing dietary protocols, questionnaires, and digital 24-hour glucose and activity data.
• Utilizing machine learning algorithms for multimodal study data analysis.
• Preparing scientific publications and presenting research results at conferences and colloquia.

The position offers intensive scientific support, enrollment in a local PhD program, and access to state-of-the-art technical equipment. Benefits include 30 days of vacation, family-friendly working conditions, and a job ticket for public transport.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application documents as a single PDF file. Documents must include a cover letter explaining your motivation, a CV, copies of degrees/certificates, and references. Please quote the reference number 2026_W13_L in your application.

Applications should be sent via e-mail to: jobs@dife.de

For further information, you may contact Prof. Dr. Olga Ramich, Head of the Department Molecular Metabolism and Precision Nutrition, at Olga.Ramich@dife.de.

Last Date for Apply

The deadline for applications is November 8, 2026.