The Technical University of Munich (TUM) invites applications for a PhD scholarship in vitamin B12 research as part of the MSCA Doctoral Network MICROSUNSET, funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme. This position is based at the Chair of Analytical Food Chemistry within the School of Life Sciences, offering a unique opportunity to join a dynamic, interdisciplinary consortium of seven leading European universities and numerous industry partners. MICROSUNSET aims to address micronutrient deficiencies in Europe as diets shift toward more plant-based foods, focusing on the bio-accessibility and bioavailability of micronutrients and strategies to enhance their concentration in sustainable diets.

The PhD project centers on investigating the bio-accessibility of vitamin B12 from plant-based, animal products, and microalgae. You will extend and apply stable isotope dilution assay (SIDA/LC-MS/MS) methods for quantifying vitamin B12 and cobamides in various foods, including milk, fermented products, meat, and algae. The research includes surveying vitamin B12 and cobamides in fermented foods and algae, developing and validating bio-accessibility models, and synthesizing reference compounds microbiologically. The project is exploratory and aims to generate new insights into plant-based foods and algae as sources of highly bioaccessible vitamin B12.

Throughout your doctoral studies, you will collaborate with other Doctoral Candidates in MICROSUNSET, contributing to evidence-based knowledge about micronutrient content, intake, digestibility, and bioavailability from plant-based diets. Planned external stays include exchanges at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Arla Innovation Centre Denmark, and University of Helsinki, Finland, to cross-validate methods and participate in innovation projects.

Responsibilities include enrolling in the Graduate Center of Life Sciences at TUM, participating in MICROSUNSET training (12 ECTS), dissemination, communication, reporting, and exploitation activities, publishing and presenting research results, preparing and defending a doctoral thesis, and supporting student supervision and teaching at BSc and MSc levels.

Applicants must hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS) in Food Sciences or a related field, with hands-on experience in analytical equipment (HPLC, LC-MS/MS), sample preparation, and quality assurance. Strong communication skills in English, experience with international collaboration, and a structured, analytical approach to work are required. Research dissemination experience is advantageous. Eligibility requires not having lived, studied, or worked in Germany for more than 12 months in the last 36 months and not already holding a doctoral degree.

The position is fully funded by the EU MSCA grant, offering a monthly gross salary of 4768 EUR (before tax) for 36 months, with deductions for taxes, pension, paid holidays, and labour market contributions. The expected start date is 1 July 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. TUM is committed to diversity and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including women returning from career breaks and disabled candidates.

To apply, submit your complete application as one PDF file to [email protected] by 15 April 2026 (23:59 German time). The PDF must include a cover letter, CV, certified MSc diploma, grade transcripts, and contact information or letters from two references. Ensure your CV documents eligibility requirements. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

For further information, visit MICROSUNSET, Chair of Analytical Food Chemistry, and TUM Graduate Center. Data protection information is available at TUM Privacy Policy.