The German Diabetes Center (DDZ), the Leibniz Institute for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University (HHU), in Düsseldorf is funded by the Federal Ministry of Health and Ministry of Culture and Science of the State of North Rhine Westphalia. The DDZ as an interdisciplinary Institute links molecular and cell biological basic research with clinical investigation.
The DDZ aims at developing new approaches for the prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment of diabetes mellitus and at improving the treatment of its complications. The DDZ is a member of the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.).
The Institute for Clinical Diabetology (German Diabetes Center, Director: Prof. Dr. Michael Roden), Research Group Nephropathy and the Department of Nephrology (University Hospital Düsseldorf, Director: Prof. Christian Rump) are seeking talented and highly-motivated individuals to fill a
PhD. student position (f/m/div.)
in the field of Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Health.
The successful applicant will join an interdisciplinary team of researchers in a collaborative project involving Prof. Johannes Stegbauer (Department of Nephrology, University Hospital Düsseldorf) and Dr. Jaroslawna Meister (Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center). This project aims to unravel the metabolic mechanisms underlying the interplay between the renal and cardiovascular system in diabetic kidney disease.
The project integrates advanced experimental techniques, including in vitro and in vivo models of chronic kidney disease, molecular biology, extensive in vivo phenotyping, and assessments of mitochondrial function.
Conduct independent research to investigate the mechanisms of cardiovascular and renal crosstalk using animal models (metabolic, renal and cardiovascular phenotyping), cell cultures, and patient-derived plasma samples.
Design and perform experiments utilizing molecular biology techniques (e.g., RT-qPCR, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry).
In vitro and ex vivo assessments of mitochondrial function using Seahorse assays and high-resolution respirometry
Ex vivo measurements of vascular function
Participate in regular meetings with the project’s collaborators across institutions.
Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications and present findings at national and international conferences.
Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Physiology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
Strong interest in cardiovascular and renal research, with an understanding of organ system interactions.
Experience with cell culture work, in vivo models and/or molecular biology techniques is highly desirable.
FELASA B certificate (or equivalent) is desirable
Knowledge or experience in bioinformatics or omics analysis would be an advantage.
Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken, in English.
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a multi-disciplinary team.
Highly motivated, organized, and detail-oriented, with dedication to scientific excellence
A fully-funded PhD position for 3 years, with salary based on the German TV-L E13 scale
Access to cutting-edge research facilities and technologies.
Participation in the PhD training program (iGRAD and medRSD) of the Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf.
Opportunities for professional development through specialized courses, workshops, and conferences.
A stimulating and inclusive research environment within a collaborative project between the UKD and DDZ and access to international research network
Mentoring and close supervision through two experienced principal investigators
The DDZ is committed to family-friendly working conditions and equal gender policy. Since May 2011, the DDZ is a “Career and Family” audit-acknowledged Center.
Women are encouraged to apply, and in the case of equal qualification will be given preference.
Persons with disabilities will be given preference.