PhD Position in Food Metabolomics, Volatilomics, and AI at Mannheim University of Applied Sciences

A fully funded PhD position is available in the group of Prof. Philipp Weller at the Competency Center for Chemometric Analysis of Processes and Materials, Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Germany. The research focuses on food metabolomics and volatilomics, integrating advanced analytical chemistry (LC-MS, GC-MS, GC-IMS-MS, GC-HRMS) with artificial intelligence and bioinformatics. The project, funded by the BMFTR ('SAM3' – Smart Applications for Multimodal Molecular Pattern Recognition), aims to develop a multiomics platform for complementary quality and authenticity analytics of fermented foods such as coffee and cocoa. The interdisciplinary project offers the opportunity to work with renowned international partners and apply state-of-the-art analytical and computational methods. Key research areas include the development of AI-based data analysis tools (e.g., CNN, GAN, Autoencoder), data augmentation using neural networks, and the creation of new data analysis workflows in Python and/or R. The position involves both experimental and computational work, including building reference analytics, developing new analytical platforms, and presenting results in publications and conferences. Applicants should hold a MSc degree in Chemistry, Food Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field, with strong academic records. Experience in instrumental analytics (GC-MS, LC-MS) and basic programming skills (Python and/or R) are required. Familiarity with machine learning, deep learning, or chemometrics is advantageous. The successful candidate will be technically skilled, enjoy interdisciplinary collaboration, and be motivated to work in a dynamic, international team. The position is part-time (50%, 19.75 hours/week), fixed-term for 3 years, and classified as EG 13 TV-L. Benefits include public service pension, annual bonus, flexible working hours, health management, and travel subsidies. The university is committed to equal opportunity and encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities. The application deadline is January 4, 2026. For more information, visit the official job posting or contact Prof. Dr. Weller.