PhD Position in Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Protein Homeostasis, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), Germany

Summary

The Ludwig‑Maximilians‑Universität München’s Department of Neuroanatomy offers a three‑year, partially funded PhD position starting 1 January 2027. The project investigates fundamental cellular and molecular mechanisms of protein homeostasis, stress responses, ageing and neurodegenerative disease using C. elegans and human cell models. The role combines experimental work, data analysis, scientific writing, and teaching duties (2.9 SWS) in anatomy. Candidates must hold a master’s degree in a life‑science discipline, possess strong laboratory skills, and demonstrate excellent German and English. The position is salaried under TV‑L E13, funded from university budget, and provides a supportive, international research environment with opportunities for independent profile development and teaching experience.

Key Facts

Employer	Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)
Department	Lehrstuhl II – Neuroanatomie der Anatomischen Anstalt
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	Biology
Research Area	Cellular and molecular mechanisms of protein homeostasis, stress responses, aging, and neurodegenerative diseases
Degree Required	Master degree (or equivalent)
Salary	TV-L E13
Funding	University budget funded qualification position
Contract Duration	Three years, initially, with possible extension
Language	German and English
Required Documents	Motivationsschreiben, Lebenslauf, Publikationsliste (optional), relevante Zeugnisse, Qualifikationsnachweise
Employer Address	Bavaria
Employer Contact	[email protected], Tel. +49 89 2180-72603

About the Project

The PhD project will explore basic cellular and molecular mechanisms governing protein homeostasis, cellular stress responses, ageing processes, and neurodegenerative diseases. The specific question and methodological focus will be defined together with the group leader, building on the candidate’s background. Work will involve experimental work with C. elegans and human cell models, employing molecular‑biological, genetic, biochemical, fluorescence‑microscopy and quantitative data‑analysis techniques, with optional omics approaches.

Key Responsibilities

• Experimental work with C. elegans and human cell models
• Molecular‑biological, genetic, biochemical and fluorescence‑microscopy methods
• Quantitative data analysis and optional omics approaches
• Independent planning, execution and evaluation of experiments
• Presentation of results in team meetings and scientific conferences
• Contribution to scientific publications and interdisciplinary collaborations
• Teaching anatomy courses (2.9 SWS) including microscopy seminars and organ‑centric seminars

Required Skills

• Laboratory experience in molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, biochemistry or microscopy
• Experience with C. elegans or cell culture (advantageous)
• Ability to learn new methods and perform quantitative data analysis
• Very good German language skills for teaching
• Very good English language skills for research communication
• Independent, careful, reliable and team‑oriented work style

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a master’s degree (or equivalent) in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, neuroscience, molecular medicine or a related natural science field, who have practical laboratory experience, strong motivation for basic cell‑biology research, and very good German and English language skills.

Benefits

• University‑budget funded qualification position (TV‑L E13) not tied to a specific third‑party project
• International and interdisciplinary research environment with broad methodological spectrum
• Support for developing an independent scientific profile, publications and conference participation
• Opportunity to gain solid teaching experience in medical education
• Central Munich location with excellent public transport connections
• Preference for equally qualified severely disabled applicants

About the Employer

LMU Munich is a leading European university with a 500‑year tradition, offering demanding academic training and outstanding research. The Medical Faculty’s Anatomical Institute hosts the Chair of Neuroanatomy, which combines modern cell‑ and molecular‑biological research with anatomical teaching for human‑medicine students.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the contract duration?

The position is initially limited to three years, with a possible extension.

What language skills are required?

Very good German and very good English are required.

How should I apply?

Send a PDF containing a motivation letter, CV, optional publication list and relevant certificates to [email protected].