University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG) PhD student (f/m/d) 2025

The University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG), is a leading institution in research, teaching, healthcare, and professional development. We are committed to patient-centered care, scientific excellence, international collaboration, and equal opportunity.

The research group of Prof. Dr. Ivan Bogeski is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to investigate the dynamics of ER-mitochondrial contact sites using state-of-the-art microscopy techniques. In collaboration with the group of Prof. Dr. Nadja Simeth-Crespi (Department of Chemistry), we aim to develop novel fluorescent tools to explore organellar signaling processes, including lipid transfer and calcium fluxes.

The project will involve the development, establishment, and optimization of fluorescently labeled small molecules, as well as live-cell imaging using advanced microscopy platforms (e.g., confocal, STED, sensor-based imaging). You will also apply molecular cloning and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing in well-established cancer cell models (melanoma and PDAC).

This is an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of cell biology, chemical biology, and advanced imaging in a highly interdisciplinary and international team, within the structured PhD program GAUSS/GGNB.

Bibliography:

• Redox signals at the ER-mitochondria interface control melanoma progression. EMBO J. 2019 Aug 1;38(15):e100871. doi: 10.15252/embj.2018100871.
• MCU controls melanoma progression through a redox-controlled phenotype switch. EMBO Rep. 2022 Nov 7;23(11):e54746. doi: 10.15252/embr.202254746.
• Mitochondrial calcium uniporter complex controls T-cell-mediated immune responses. EMBO Rep. 2025 Jan;26(2):407-442. doi: 10.1038/s44319-024-00313-4.

Your tasks

• develop and optimize novel fluorescence microscopy tools to study ER-mitochondria contact sites in collaboration with chemistry partners
• investigate regulatory mechanisms of organellar contact sites using advanced imaging methods
• design and independently execute your research and manage your schedule
• remain up to date with current literature and emerging developments in the field
• evaluate and improve existing methodologies to ensure research quality and efficiency
• actively participate in scientific conferences and present your research
• work toward obtaining a PhD degree

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirments
• Application Documents
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineJuly 15, 2025
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorUniversity of Göttingen
• City to studyLower Saxony
• School to studyUniversity of Göttingen
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• a stimulating research environment within an international and welcoming team
• scientific freedom to pursue your ideas
• access to excellent scientific infrastructure and state-of-the-art technologies
• integration into a structured PhD program (GAUSS/GGNB)
• a comprehensive range of employee benefits at UMG (e.g., infrastructure, transportation, health, and sports programs)

Requirements

• Master’s degree in biomedical or natural sciences (e.g., Molecular Medicine, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry)
• excellent written and spoken English
• prior experience in cell culture, molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, and fluorescence microscopy is desirable
• ability to work independently and flexibly
• critical mindset with attention to reproducibility and scientific rigor
• strong time management and organizational skills
• excellent communication and teamwork skills
• high level of enthusiasm and scientific creativity

Application Documents

• Cover letter,
• CV,
• Certificates, and
• Names of two referees

Application Deadline

July 15, 2025

How To Apply

Are you qualified and interested in this opportunity? Kindly go to University of Göttingen on umg.recruiting-portal.com to apply

Applications should include a cover letter, CV, certificates and names of two referees. Please upload your application as one PDF-file until 15.07.2025 to the online application system. We look forward to receiving your application! Please note that disabled people will be given preferential consideration in case of equal suitability. Travel and application fees cannot be refunded.

For more information, kindly visit University Medical Center Göttingen scholarship webpage.