Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology (LSB), Freising

The Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich (Leibniz- LSB@TUM), a legal foundation under civil law in Freising, is a research institution of the Leibniz Association that combines methods of biomolecular basic research with analysis methods of bioinformatics and analytical high-performance technologies to investigate the complex interplay between the human organism and food ingredients.

The research group Mechanoreceptors/ Section II at Leibniz-LSB@TUM is currently looking for a

to start as soon as possible. The position is to be filled on a part-time (65%) basis for an initial period of 1 year, with the option to prolong for another three years.

Research project and work environment

You will have the great opportunity to shape a collaborative new research line at the interface of biophysics, cell biology, food science, and food related health in an energetic young research team. You will be part in a new and growing working group, embedded in an experienced and internationally well-recognized research section of highest quality.

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join an interdisciplinary and collaborative research project investigating how environmental contaminants, particularly heavy metals, affect taste perception and nutrient sensing in the gastrointestinal system. This large-scale project, with partners at the LSB and the IUF in Düsseldorf (Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine), combines cellular and molecular biology, sensory science, and cohort-based human studies to explore how pollutant exposure influences metabolism, food preferences, and overall health. The successful candidate will focus on the biophysical analysis of receptor function, specifically examining how exposure to environmental pollutants alters the activity of membrane proteins involved in taste and nutrient sensing. Using cutting-edge techniques in molecular and cellular biology, the project will investigate signal transduction mechanisms at the protein and membrane level. Experimental systems will include 2D cell culture, organoid models, and advanced biophysical assays (e.g., high-throughput atomic force microscopy). This position offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic and multidisciplinary environment, contributing to a project with both fundamental scientific significance and public health relevance.

The specific objectives of the project will be developed in relation to the candidate’s experience and interests but has a strong cell biology, mechanobiology and biophysics-related component.

Your area of responsibility includes

• Biophysical analysis of receptor function under varying conditions using primarily cell biology and biophysical assays
• Eukaryotic cell culture and transfection of cell lines
• Handling and experimental use of organoid models (provided by a partner institute), including adaptation for biophysical assays and imaging
• Experimental investigations using atomic force microscopy (AFM), including force-distance curve-based imaging, (single molecule) force spectroscopy, nanomechanics, and associated data analysis
• Application of correlative techniques such as confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and related
• Interdisciplinary collaboration with research groups at the LSB and IUF Düsseldorf
• Organizational support for project-related activities and coordination tasks
• Ongoing literature review, and preparation of reports, presentations, and scientific manuscripts

Requirements and desired expertise:

The ideal applicant should have

• A graduation in molecular/ cell biology, biophysics, food science or related field
• Advanced knowledge and practical experience in molecular/ cell biology, and in cell culture techniques
• Basic knowledge in food chemistry and superior interest in food systems biology, food-related research
• Keen interest in learning and applying experimental biophysical techniques, in particular AFM (essential)
• Great ambition and motivation to work on complex research questions by applying cutting-edge experimental methodologies

We are seeking a creative, passionate individual with excellent interpersonal communication, time-management skills, commitment to laboratory safety & handling laboratory equipment with care, and strong willingness to cross the borders between biophysics and food-related research. We are looking for a highly motivated team player, who can work independently as well.

In addition to a highly stimulating workplace where your performance counts, we offer

• a performance-related salary in accordance with TV-L, in-line with your personal qualifications and the personal prerequisites
• an interesting and varied task area in the field of university research
• a motivated team that is looking forward to welcoming you
• flexible working times and therefore good compatibility of work and family
• company pension scheme
• special annual payment

Leibniz-LSB@TUM is committed to equal opportunities, diversity, and respectful interaction. We welcome applications regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social background, religion or belief, disability, age, sexual orientation, or identity.

In the case of essentially reciprocal suitability, severely-disabled applicants as defined SGB IX will be preferred.

Please address any questions on current topics to Dr. Melanie Köhler (m.koehler.leibniz-lsb(at)tum.de) and get in touch if you think you would be interested in working as part of our team. More information on the working group can be found here: https://www.leibniz-lsb.de/en/research/research-sections/section-ii/.

Send your application with the usual documents, containing your comprehensive CV and transcripts as well as names of three potential references electronically as a PDF file to the following address, citing the reference number 2025-09-S2-MK:

Anja Albrecht (Human Resources Department) recruiting.leibniz-lsb(at)tum.de.

Take advantage of this opportunity and contact us!

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