PhD Student Position in Cellular Metabolism (MSCA Doctoral Network UNLIMITED) Technische Universität Braunschweig in Germany

The Cellular Metabolism Group at Technische Universität Braunschweig, led by Professor Dr. Thekla Cordes, is offering a fully funded PhD student position as part of the MSCA Doctoral Network UNLIMITED (UNderstanding Lipid ImmunoMetabolIsm To trEat Disease). This interdisciplinary project aims to investigate the links between mitochondrial metabolism, central carbon and fatty acid metabolism, and how altered substrate utilization (such as amino acid metabolism) influences host-pathogen interactions. The research will focus on understanding how these metabolic changes affect lipid metabolism, plasma membrane events like phagocytosis, and macrophage immune responses, with the goal of uncovering novel therapeutic targets for immune-related diseases.

The UNLIMITED network is a prestigious consortium of 15 partners across Europe, including leading academic and non-academic institutions. It provides a comprehensive training program that integrates scientific, technical, and transferable skills, preparing doctoral candidates for careers in lipid immunometabolism and health innovation. The network offers interdisciplinary research opportunities, secondments, and advanced training in multi-omics, single-cell technologies, and lipidomics, advancing precision medicine and Europe’s leadership in health innovation.

The PhD position at Technische Universität Braunschweig (project #9) is based in the Department of Bioinformatics and Biochemistry, within the Braunschweig Integrated Centre of Systems Biology (BRICS). The successful candidate will conduct metabolic profiling using stable isotope labeling and mass spectrometry-based metabolism research with culture models to explore immune-metabolic interactions. The position is full-time (39.8 hours/week) for 36 months, with a salary according to German scale EG 13 TV-L and MSCA regulations. All doctoral candidates will benefit from local and network-wide training activities, including scientific, technical, entrepreneurial, and transferable skills.

Eligibility requires compliance with the MSCA mobility rule: applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Germany for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment. Candidates must not already possess a doctoral degree and must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Metabolism, or related fields. Excellent English language skills are required. For degrees obtained outside the EU, applicants must provide a German translation and assessment from the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) or a PDF excerpt from ANABIN. All documents must be submitted in English, with official translations for non-English documents.

To apply, candidates should compile all required documents (UNLIMITED application form, CV, cover letter, reference letters, transcripts, and any additional certificates) into a single PDF (max 5 MB) and email it to [email protected] and [email protected], quoting 'Application UNLIMITED DC – [Your Name]'. The application form can be downloaded from the UNLIMITED website. The deadline for applications is 15 March 2026, 23:00 GMT. Only complete applications submitted in English will be considered. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, either on-site or online, during a dedicated recruitment event in April 2026.

Technische Universität Braunschweig is one of Germany’s leading institutes of technology, with a strong focus on engineering, natural sciences, and interdisciplinary research. The university advocates for equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates. The Cellular Metabolism Group is committed to advancing research in metabolic reprogramming and its role in metabolic disease, offering an excellent environment for doctoral training and scientific development.