Postdoctoral Position – Circadian Rhythms of Metabolism During Adolescence (SFB 418 B03) University of Luebeck in Germany

The Institute of Neurobiology at the University of Luebeck, in collaboration with the Center for Brain, Behavior and Metabolism (CBMM), is offering a postdoctoral position as part of the Collaborative Research Center CRC-TRR 370 “Foundations of Circadian Medicine.” This DFG-funded consortium brings together leading scientists from Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, University of Lübeck, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Technical University Munich, and the German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE) Potsdam. The overarching goal is to uncover principles linking the circadian clock to pathology across organs and disease systems, and to develop evidence-based circadian medicine strategies for clinical application.

This interdisciplinary project (B03) is based at the Institute of Neurobiology in Lübeck and focuses on the mechanistic relationship between chronotype shifts and metabolic function during adolescence. The research tests the hypothesis that disruption of circadian rhythms during adolescence alters metabolic setpoints and impacts puberty development. The study utilizes conditional transgenic mouse models, physiologic and transcriptomic circadian profiling, and intervention studies to assess the effects of rhythm disruption on metabolic homeostasis, puberty development, and long-term outcomes. The intervention aims to strengthen the circadian system during this critical developmental period, quantifying effects on rhythms, metabolism, and endocrine functions.

The successful candidate will join a highly stimulating research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities across consortium sites. The position offers full-time employment (38.5 hours/week) with a salary based on the German E13 TV-L scale, subject to collective bargaining law. Additional benefits include participation in qualification and networking events, technology workshops, career mentoring programs, and summer schools in chronomedicine research.

Key responsibilities include studying the role of circadian regulation and perturbation during adolescence, performing endocrine and molecular assays, conducting animal experiments, analyzing transcriptome data, and collaborating closely with clinicians and basic researchers in the Oster and Kühnen laboratories.

Applicants should hold a PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, or related disciplines, and have experience with molecular analyses, physiology, and animal experiments. A structured, independent working style and excellent communication skills are essential for effective collaboration within the team and with external partners. Interest in clinical translational research is expected, and knowledge in chronobiology is advantageous. Excellent English language skills are required.

To apply, submit a motivation letter (max. 1 page), CV with publication list, degree certificates and transcripts (BSc, MSc, PhD), at least one letter of recommendation, and names and email addresses of two referees. Applications should be submitted by 14 January 2026, indicating reference number 27690, via the provided job portal links. For further information, contact Prof. Henrik Oster at [email protected].

This position provides an excellent opportunity for postdoctoral researchers interested in circadian biology, metabolism, and translational medicine to contribute to cutting-edge research in a collaborative and supportive environment.