The German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke (DIfE) is a member of the Leibniz Association. The institute’s mission is to conduct experimental and clinical research in the field of nutrition and health – with the aim of understanding the molecular basis of nutrition-dependent diseases – and of developing new strategies for treatment and prevention (website: https://www.dife.de/en/).
The Department of Experimental Diabetology (DIAB) invites applications for one Postdoc (m/f/div) starting as soon as possible.
We are seeking an outstanding and highly motivated Molecular Biologist to join our interdisciplinary research team investigating how obesity and type 2 diabetes remodel the epigenome. Our work aims to identify disease-associated genes and epigenetic regulatory mechanisms, with a particular focus on miRNA-mediated control of metabolic adaptation. Using well-established lean and obese mouse models alongside translational validation in human tissues, we explore how lifestyle interventions such as intermittent fasting and endurance training can reverse or normalize disease-induced molecular alterations.
Tasks:
- Develop and lead epigenetics-focused research projects with a strong emphasis on miRNA-dependent regulatory mechanisms in metabolic disease
- Analyze miRNA expression profiles in murine models and human samples following lifestyle interventions
- Perform functional manipulation of miRNAs in vitro and in vivo to assess their roles in gene regulation and metabolic adaptation
- Identify and characterize miRNA target genes and regulatory networks using complementary molecular and bioinformatic approaches
- Integrate epigenetic, transcriptomic, and phenotypic data to generate mechanistic insights into metabolic adaptation
- Prepare scientific reports, presentations, and manuscripts to communicate project results to the international community
Skills and requirements:
- Excellent master’s and doctoral degree in Molecular Biology or a related life science discipline
- Strong background in genetics and epigenetics, preferably with experience in miRNA analysis
- Experience with transcriptomic and/or epigenomic data analysis
- Strong communication skills and ability to work in interdisciplinary teams
- Fluency in English, both written and spoken
We expect interested and committed candidates.
We offer:
- A dynamic and interactive research environment as well as excellent working conditions and outstanding technical equipment
- Remuneration according to TV-L, level 13, plus annual special payment and company pension scheme
- Family-friendly working conditions (certificate “audit berufundfamilie”)
- Supporting of mobility with a jobticket for using the public transport
- Easy accessibility by public transport or car (including free parking)
- 30 days of vacation
- Participation in the benefits program for employees (“Corporate Benefits”)
The advertised position is available for two years.
We promote the employment of people with severe disabilities and are committed to equal opportunities for them. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration if they have the same qualifications.
Contact:
Please send your documents (cover letter explaining your motivation, CV, copies of degrees / certificates and references) with reference number 2026_W04_AP as a single PDF file before April 30th, 2026, via e-mail to jobs@dife.de.
For further information please do not hesitate to contact:
PD Dr. Heike Vogel
Deputy head of the department Experimental Diabetology
E-mail: heikevogel@dife.de