About us:

LMU Munich is one of Europe’s leading research institutions. Scientists from all over the world encounter excellent conditions for their work in their own research field and in interdisciplinary networks alike.
The BMC is located on the Martinsried Campus (one of the best scientific locations in Germany) and offers an ideal research infrastructure with close proximity to the LMU University Hospital, the Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Faculty of Biology, the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE-Munich), Helmholtz Center Munich, the Max Planck Institutes for Biochemistry and Biological Intelligence and the Innovation and Start-up Center Biotechnology (IZB). Off campus, Munich is one of the most vibrant cities in the world, offering a diverse range of cultural and leisure activities throughout the year.

Our research investigates how alterations in chromatin regulation impact other cellular organelles, why certain conditions are more prevalent in one sex than the other, and how distinct mutations can lead to similar developmental issues. More information can be found on our homepage.

Project Summary
Core gene expression machineries are highly conserved across species, yet tissue-specific variants of basal transcription factors, ribosomal proteins, and other machinery components exist throughout the animal kingdom. Despite their identification, the molecular function and developmental impact of these paralogous variants remain underexplored, particularly in humans, where further diversifications have occurred.
This project will investigate how chromatin-associated paralogues coordinate during development and how their dysregulation contributes to neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Using stem cell culture, imaging, genomic, and epigenomic approaches, the successful candidate will characterize paralogue expression profiles, cellular dynamics and functional specialization across developmental stages.
The project builds upon exciting unpublished data obtained by a previous PhD student, providing a solid foundation for further investigation.

We are looking for you:

PhD position in neurodevelopmental disorders (m/f/x)

in Planegg

Your tasks and responsibilities:

• Develop and validate cellular models of acute paralogue dysfunction in developmental contexts (e.g. degrons)
• Map binding dynamics of paralogue proteins through immunoprecipitation, ChIP-seq and-or CUT&RUN techniques.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team (e.g. bioinformaticians, clinicians and facilities) and maintain detailed experimental records
• Mentor undergraduate and Master's students in laboratory techniques
• Present findings at lab meetings, conferences, and in peer-reviewed publications

Your qualifications:

• A Master's degree (or comparable) in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, medicine, or related natural science disciplines.
• Ability to troubleshoot experimental challenges and adapt methodologies.
• Proven ability to think interdisciplinary and work in collaborative teams, e.g. (but not limited to) molecular biology-clinical, bioinformatics-biology
• Knowledge of basic microscopy and flow cytometry methods
• Experience with cell culture techniques is highly desired
• Previous experience with genomics approaches and data analysis is a plus.
• Interest in working in a project with wet and dry lab aspects
• Interest in working independently on scientific questions
• Effective time management with flexibility
• Organizational and team skills, a high degree of responsibility, curiosity, a high work ethic, and a passion for research.

Benefits:

• An exciting project in a young, well-equipped and modern laboratory
• Creative working conditions in a top worldwide research environment
• Mentorship for career development for both academic and industry paths
• Participation at conferences and in international research projects
• Remuneration according to TVL and Social benefits in line with public service
• LMU Gateway support in all matters relating to the move to Munich [for international PhD students]
• Many opportunities to help shape our BMC initiatives (e.g. BMC Green Lab, Public Outreach and BMC working group diversity and inclusion)
• Free parking and good public transportation connections
• Compatibility of family and science (e.g. kindergarten on campus and emergency child care, parent-child room)
• Numerous LMU employee benefits, e.g. discounted fitness and cultural offers, job public transport ticket, Jobbike as well as several canteens and excellent cafés on campus
• Annual special payment, 30 days of vacation and additional pension scheme.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds. The promotion of diversity is an important strategic goal at our center. This is reflected in the BMC Code of Conduct, which actively promotes diversity and equal opportunities.

Destination Germany
Do you have questions about visa requirements or degree recognition? Are you looking for housing, childcare, or trying to decide on the best health insurance? The "Research in Bavaria" and LMU Gateway website provides help in these practical matters.

People with disabilities who are equally as qualified as other applicants will receive preferential treatment.

Contact:

Application Process

Please submit your complete application exclusively via our online application tool, including the following documents individually:

• Curriculum Vitae (PDF file, max. 2 pages, written in English).
• Short description of research projects carried out during your studies (e.g., Bachelor Thesis). Please describe the rationale of the research, and highlight your contributions to the results (approx. 300 words).
• Description of your general research interests and career goals (approx. 200 words).
• What do you find interesting about our research? (approx. 200 words).
• Updated Transcripts.
• Contact details for at least two referees, including at least one direct supervisor who has worked with you for at least six months.

AI Policy: AI assistance is welcome for tasks such as proofreading, but you must clearly indicate where it was used. Primarily AI-generated applications will be automatically discarded without feedback

Applications will be considered if submitted by 01.11.2025.

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