Doctoral researcher / PhD student (f/m/d)

What to expect

We are the UKE – the University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf [Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf]. A pulsating centre of health in the heart of Hamburg. When you are surrounded by that much energy and when progress sets the pace, no two days are the same. More than 14,400 employees with very different responsibilities are united by the same goal: ensuring health and well-being.

In the research group "Skeletal Pathobiochemistry" we are interested in the molecular basis of rare genetic diseases affecting bone and cartilage tissue in the early years of life, such as osteogenesis imperfecta, mucopolysaccharidosis type VI and mucolipidosis type II and type III. Biochemically, these diseases are characterized by the deficiency or inactivity of specific enzymes that mediate a variety of signalling cascades and pathways in bone/cartilage cells and regulate the skeletal matrix turnover. Aiming to understand the molecular cues that guide skeletal matrix synthesis and degradation in healthy and diseased state, we utilize both cell-based and mouse disease models, as well as patient material.

The goal of the project is to explore the molecular pathomechanisms of an ultra-rare, X-linked form of osteogenesis imperfecta. The position is to be filled with 65% (TVöD/VKA E13) of the regular weekly working hours and is to be occupied at the earliest possible date. The position is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) for a period of three years.

What we look forward to

• Diploma or Master degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular medicine or a related discipline
• Strong interest in disease-oriented research
• Solid background in cell and molecular biology
• Motivation for experimental work and willingness to learn new techniques
• Hands-on experience with cell culture, microscopy, biochemistry and cell/molecular biology techniques is an advantage, but not a prerequisite
• Excellent spoken and written English

Your professional qualifications are complemented by a quick grasp, creative mindset, structured and independent way of working and a good team spirit.

What we can offer

• Secure and interesting position in an international team and collaborative research environment
• Research laboratory with state-of-the-art equipment
• Qualified and comprehensive training
• Intensive support and supervision aimed at successful dissertation and scientific publishing
• Opportunity to communicate scientific results at (inter)national conferences.