PhD Student (m/f/d) | In vivo characterisation of genetic variants linked to human longevity

Job Code: 06-2022

Job Offer from March 28, 2022

The Research Group “Genetics and Biomarkers of Human Ageing” headed by Dr. Joris Deelen is looking for a PhD student in “In vivo characterisation of genetic variants linked to human longevity” (m/f/d) (job code 06-2022).

The Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing was founded in 2008 with the mission to unravel fundamental mechanisms of healthy ageing. It is part of a broad network of institutions in the Cologne-Bonn area dedicated to research on ageing and age-related disease, constituting a vibrant and collaborative environment. Equipped with state-of-the-art core facilities, the institute provides outstanding opportunities for its scientists. At the moment, we host 350 employees - including guest scientists - from 30 different nations.

Our research group investigates genetics and biomarkers of human ageing using mice and cellular models, as well as samples from human individuals. The proposed research project, which is supported by a Longevity Impetus Grant, combines in vivo phenotyping with molecular biology (including mammalian cell culture and CRISPR/Cas9) to study how genetic variants linked to human longevity influence metabolism in model organisms. We seek a talented, dynamic, highly motivated young scientist to join our enthusiastic and collaborative team in an excellent scientific environment. We are specifically interested in applicants with experience in working with rodents.

The successful candidate will hold a master’s degree/diploma in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry or a related field. The applicant should have strong written and oral communication skills and a collaborative mind-set. The working language is English; knowledge of the German language is not required. Experience in working with rodents, in specifically phenotyping, is strongly preferred.

• A one-page cover letter that includes answers to the following questions:
• Why are you interested in this position?
• What makes you the right person for this position (skills and expertise)?
• What are your research interests and long-term career plans?

• A CV, including your scientific interests, wet and dry lab skills, publications and scientific achievements
• Certificates and transcripts of the degrees you obtained already
• Contact information for 2-3 references

and should be uploaded as one single pdf-file using our application website (quoting job code: 06-2022). The deadline for application is May 1st 2022.

We offer a three-year contract according to the funding guidelines for young researchers of the Max Planck Society. The Max Planck Society endeavours to achieve gender equality and diversity, and therefore seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and explicitly encourages women to apply. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of employees with severe disabilities in its workforce. Applications from persons with severe disabilities are expressly desired.