The research group of Prof. Dr. Antje Körner at the Center for Pediatric Research at the University of Leipzig is seeking applications for a PhD student.
Environment
Our research group is dedicated to experimental and clinical topics on pediatric endocrinology and obesity at the interface between experimental basic science and clinical medicine with particular emphasis on the study of the pathomechanistic and molecular mechanisms of obesity and related disease. Our team is integrated in leading local as well as national research consortia (Collaborative Research Consortium CRC „ObesityMechanisms“, HI-MAG Helmholtz-Institute of Metabolismus-, Adipositas- und Gefäßforschung, LIFE Child). We are coordinating the SaxoChiLD Leipzig-Dresden partner site of the German Center for Child Health.
Leipzig is an attractive lively University City of 500,000 people with a rich cultural, music and nightlife, sociocultural diversity and a very green city with several lakes in cycling distance.
Projects
The study of the development of adipose tissue and its interaction with other (patho)physiological processes as the underlying mechanisms of early childhood obesity and related disease is scientific focus of our work in an approach that combines experimental studies, epidemiological and clinical studies.
Aim of the PhD projects is
a) the functional experimental and clinical characterization of regulatory factors identified in epidemiological and multiomic approaches in our cohorts and potentially involved processes related to childhood obesity. In particular, molecular candidates will be characterized regarding their relevance for adipose tissue accumulation and adipocyte differentiation at the molecular and cell biology level in cell culture models, in zebrafish, as well as in patient samples.
b) The identification and functional characterization of epigenetic candidates for early progressive childhood obesity and progressive deterioration of glucose metabolism
Methods used for the project will include cell biology, molecular biology, animal experiments in zebrafish, genetic analyses and assessment of circulating factors in patient material as well as statistical evaluations.
Requirements
We are looking for a dedicated scientist holding a degree (Master/Diploma or equivalent) in life sciences (biology, biochemistry, molecular medicine etc.). The successful candidate shall pursue an independent research project. We aim for a cumulative PhD thesis based on scientific publications. Experience in cell and molecular biology is desirable.
Successful candidates should be highly motivated, enthusiastic and demonstrate a strong research interest in pediatric endocrinology and obesity.
Conditions
The salary is fixed (TVL E13 65 %). The position is initially limited for 2 years but can be extended. We are looking forward to applications of young scientists who appreciate the attractive environment of a young research group and who are enthusiastic about science. Please send your complete application including a motivation letter, a CV, all relevant grades, publication list, contact details of two references, and an abstract of own scientific projects and/or your Bachelor/Master/Diploma thesis per email to:
Prof. Dr. Antje Körner
email:
[email protected] Center for Pediatric Research, Department for Women’s and Child Health, University of Leipzig, Liebigstr. 19-21, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
Koerner-lab-leipzig.de
