PhD Student (f/m/d) Cellular Resilience at Max Planck Institute, Germany

Summary

The Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, W. G. Kerckhoff Institute, invites applications for a highly motivated PhD student to join the Research Group Cellular Resilience, led by Dr. Reymond Sutandy. The successful candidate will investigate how RNA-binding proteins shape cellular stress responses and adaptation, contributing to cutting-edge research in cell biology.

Designation

PhD Student (f/m/d)

Research Area

Cellular Resilience, Developmental and Evolutionary Biology & Genetics, Immunobiology and Infection Biology & Medicine, Physiology. The research focuses on understanding how cells sense stress, mount adaptive responses, and restore homeostasis using human cellular models combined with transcriptomic and proteomic approaches.

Location

Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, W. G. Kerckhoff Institute, Ludwigstr. 43, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany.

Eligibility/Qualification

Your Responsibilities:

• Conduct an independent research project investigating the role of RNA–protein interactions in cellular stress responses.
• Establish and develop next-generation sequencing and mass spectrometry-based proteomic approaches and analyse the resulting data.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific publications.
• Present research findings at internal seminars and international conferences.
• Stay up to date with relevant scientific literature.

Your Qualifications:

• A completed scientific university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent; candidates close to completion are also encouraged to apply) in biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline, with a strong focus on molecular biology, cell biology, or biochemistry.
• Hands-on experience in cell culture and molecular biology techniques, including cloning and CRISPR-Cas technologies, is highly desirable.
• Previous research experience in RNA biology and/or high-throughput sequencing technologies would be a strong advantage.
• Familiarity with programming languages such as R or Python for data analysis is beneficial.
• Excellent communication skills in English.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and think creatively is highly valued.

Scholarship Description

This is a fully funded PhD position available for three years, starting on 1 January 2027 (a later starting date can be arranged). The Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research is an internationally renowned institute offering an opportunity to work in an international team, utilize cutting-edge technologies, and benefit from state-of-the-art core facilities (next-generation sequencing, proteomics, bioinformatics, cytometry, microscopy, and small animal imaging).

How to Apply

Interested candidates should upload their complete application documents via the application portal. The application should include:

• A one-page motivation letter.
• Your CV, including a list of publications.
• Copies of your diploma certificates.
• Two letters of reference.

Last Date for Apply

20.10.2026

Apply Link

Please refer to the original job posting on the Max Planck Society career portal for the direct application link, typically found under the ‘Your application’ section or similar. The job code is 2026_24.