Maximilian Kleinert

The Department of Molecular Physiology of Exercise and Nutrition (MPEN) at the German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE) in Potsdam-Rehbrücke is offering a doctoral student position focused on how short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are regulated and metabolized in the liver. The project examines hepatic SCFA uptake and metabolic fate under different nutritional states, including fasting and feeding, as well as in pathological conditions such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The work combines mouse models , cell culture systems , and state-of-the-art metabolic approaches to understand how SCFAs contribute to liver function and metabolic disease. The doctoral researcher will study whether SCFAs are used as energy substrates, incorporated into anabolic pathways, or involved in gene regulation through epigenetic mechanisms. The experimental work includes in vivo metabolic studies, stable isotope tracing, metabolic flux analysis, primary hepatocyte experiments, and molecular and biochemical analyses of tissues and biological samples. The project is embedded in a research environment with intensive scientific support, close collaboration with cooperating institutions, excellent technical equipment, and a broad range of experimental methods. The position is part of the department led by Prof. Dr. Maximilian Kleinert .

The German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke (DIfE), a member of the Leibniz Association, is renowned for its research in nutrition and health. The Department of Molecular Physiology of Exercise and Nutrition (MPEN) is seeking a doctoral student to join a project focused on acetyl-CoA metabolism in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. The research aims to unravel the molecular mechanisms by which acetyl-CoA dynamics influence metabolic health, using advanced mouse models and metabolic approaches. Acetyl-CoA is a central metabolite linking glucose and lipid metabolism and acts as a signaling molecule affecting cellular function through protein and histone acetylation. The project will investigate enzymes controlling acetyl-CoA homeostasis and explore how changes in these pathways impact metabolic health. The doctoral student will manage transgenic mouse colonies, plan and conduct in vivo metabolic experiments to assess glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity, and perform downstream analyses including molecular signaling, histology, and metabolite measurements. Applicants should have an excellent M.Sc. (or equivalent) in life science, biology, nutritional science, medicine, or biochemistry. Experience in animal intervention studies within metabolism is desirable, and a FELASA certificate (or equivalent) is preferred. Strong laboratory skills in metabolism, biochemistry, and molecular biology, as well as proficiency in data analysis and presentation, are required. Candidates must be highly motivated, able to work collaboratively, possess excellent English communication skills, and have a strong knowledge base in metabolism and physiology. The position offers intensive scientific support, collaboration with partner institutions, and enrolment in a local PhD program. DIfE provides excellent technical equipment, a wide range of experimental methods, and a dynamic research environment. The role is remunerated according to TV-L, level 13 (65%), with annual special payment and company pension scheme. Additional benefits include family-friendly working conditions, a jobticket for public transport, free parking, 30 days of vacation, and participation in a corporate benefits program. The position is available for three years. DIfE is committed to equal opportunities and encourages applications from individuals with severe disabilities, who will be given preferential consideration if equally qualified. To apply, submit your cover letter, CV, copies of degrees/certificates, and references as a single PDF file by email to [email protected] with reference number 2026_W06_AP before June 19th, 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Maximilian Kleinert at [email protected]. More details about the institute and department can be found at DIfE website .