Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology (LSB), Freising

The Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich (LeibnizLSB@TUM), a legal foundation under civil law based in Freising, is a prominent member of the Leibniz Association. Our institute integrates cutting-edge biomolecular research, bioinformatics, and high-performance analytical technologies to explore the complex interactions between the human organism and food components.

To strengthen our research group Metabolic Function & Biosignals / Section II, we are currently looking for a committed PhD Student to start as soon as possible. The position is part-time (TV-L 13, 65%) and initially limited to 3 years.

Research project and work environment:

This research project addresses the profound impacts of environmental pollution on human health, specifically targeting how air- and foodborne pollutants may impair taste perception and nutrient sensing. The project aims at clarifying whether exposure to pollutants compromises sensory functions, potentially affecting appetite regulation, caloric intake, and overall health outcomes. To explore this hypothesis, we will integrate a combination of mechanistic in-vitro studies and population-based epidemiological research. Researchers on this project will benefit from a multidisciplinary environment at the intersection of cellular biology, toxicology, and epidemiology. As part of our team, you will collaborate with leading experts in environmental health, stem cell technology, and epidemiology. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and skill development, providing hands-on training in organoid culture, pollutant exposure methods, and data analysis. Additionally, through a planned cohort study, you will gain experience in translating laboratory findings into real-world health applications.

Key Responsibilities:

• Characterizing metal-chemoreceptors-interactions in a cellular model system using mostly biochemical and cell biology assays including sensory studies

• Quantification of heavy metals using ICP-MS techniques

• Eukaryotic cell culture and transfection of cell lines

• Gene expression analyses

• Interdisciplinary collaborations with other groups at the LSB and beyond

• Organizational tasks and duties

Your Profile

You ideally bring the following with you:

• a graduation (M.Sc.) in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular / cell biology, or related field

• advanced knowledge and practical experience in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, as well as in cell culture techniques

• practical experience and theoretical knowledge of ICP-MS techniques

• basic knowledge in food chemistry and superior interest in food systems biology, and food-related research

• 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 work in an interdisciplinary environment. We are looking for a highly motivated team player, who can work independently as well.

We offer you

• a thorough induction into your area of responsibility

• a diverse range of training and development opportunities for professional and personal development

• Opportunities for health promotion and work-life balance

• an appreciative, collegial working atmosphere with flat hierarchies and short decision-making paths

• an interesting and responsible field of work in the context of non-university cutting-edge research

• flexible working hours with the option of mobile working (home office)

• Company pension scheme (VBL) and annual bonus payment

• a motivated team that is looking forward to welcoming you!

Equal Opportunities and Diversity

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

Applicants with severe disabilities or those with equivalent status will be given preferential consideration in cases of essentially equal qualification (§ 2 SGB IX).

Contact and Application

For any questions on corrent topics, please contact: Dr. Phil Richter (p.richter.leibniz-lsb(at)tum.de) or Prof. Dr. Veronika Somoza (v.somoza.leibniz-lsb(at)tum.de)

More information on the working group can be found here: https://www.leibniz-lsb.de/en/research/research-sections/section-ii/.

Please send your application, including a comprehensive CV and transcripts as well as names of three potential references, as a PDF file and stating the reference number 2025-15-S2-VS via email to: Anja Albrecht (Administration) recruiting.leibniz-lsb(at)tum.de.

We look forward to receiving your application!

Data Protection Notice:

As part of your application for a position at Leibniz-LSB@TUM, you will transmit personal data. Please refer to our data protection information in accordance with Article 13 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) regarding the collection and processing of personal data in the context of your application. By submitting your application, you confirm that you have taken note of the Leibniz-LSB@TUM data protection information.