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Leipzig University

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PhD Position in PTEN-Dependent Craniofacial and Skeletal Biology Leipzig University in Germany

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Metabolism

Funding

Available

Deadline

Oct 31, 2026

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Country

Germany

University

Leipzig University

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Keywords

Metabolism
Molecular Biology
Medical Imaging
Biology
Medical Science
Craniofacial Biology
Bone Biology
Mouse Model
Bioinformatic
Temporomandibular Joint
Spatial Transcriptomic

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About this position

Leipzig University Medical Center (UKL), within the Medical Faculty and the Department of Orthodontics, offers a fully funded PhD position in PTEN-dependent craniofacial and skeletal biology. The project is part of a DFG-funded collaborative research effort and is embedded in the research group Cranio- and Orofacial Development.

The PhD project focuses on how loss of PTEN in the osteoblast lineage affects postnatal craniofacial tissue homeostasis. Research will concentrate on teeth and periodontal tissues, alveolar and craniofacial bone, and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The work aims to reveal how PTEN-dependent signaling influences tissue architecture, bone remodeling, cellular states, and molecular programs after postnatal PTEN deletion.

A complementary part of the project addresses the associated adipose/metabolic phenotype in collaboration with Dr. Antje Garten and her group in Molecular Endocrinology at the Center for Pediatric Research. This makes the position especially attractive for candidates interested in linking local craniofacial phenotypes with systemic metabolic alterations.

The project combines experimental and computational approaches, including inducible transgenic mouse models, genetic reporter systems, histology, immunofluorescence, advanced microscopy, micro-computed tomography, spatial transcriptomics, molecular biology, quantitative image analysis, proteomic integration, and bioinformatic analyses.

The university is seeking a highly motivated candidate with a Master of Science degree or diploma in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, or Chemistry. Applicants should have a strong interest in craniofacial biology, mechanobiology, or regenerative medicine, plus experience in molecular biology, cell biology, animal models, and/or bioinformatics. Good communication skills and excellent English are required. The working environment is international and interdisciplinary.

The position is fully funded for 3 years and offers access to cutting-edge technologies, international collaboration, advanced imaging, and opportunities for conference participation and exchange. The application deadline is 31 October 2026.

To apply, submit a single PDF containing a cover letter describing your research experience and motivation, a CV, copies of relevant qualifications (and animal-course certificates if applicable), and contact details for two referees. Applications should be emailed to [email protected].

Funding details

Available

What's required

Applicants should hold a Master of Science degree or diploma in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, or Chemistry. The post seeks candidates with interest in craniofacial biology, mechanobiology, or regenerative medicine, and experience in molecular biology, cell biology, animal models, and/or bioinformatics. Good communication skills and excellent proficiency in English are required.

How to apply

Send a single PDF by email to [email protected]. Include a cover letter, CV, copies of relevant qualifications (and animal-course certificates if applicable), and contact details of two referees.

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