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 Molecular Modeling / Section III, we are currently looking for a committed

PhD Student (m/f/d)

to start on 15/01/2026. The position is part-time (TV-L 13, 65%) and initially limited to 3 years.

Research project

Advancements in structural biology and AI-guided protein structure design are providing new insights into the structures of receptors responsible for food taste and odor perception and food-derived proteins. The project aims to make use of the structural information for structure-based ligand design projects in order to develop prediction methods to identify new food ingredients and flavor modulators.

Key Responsibilities

• AI-based methodologies for protein structure prediction and conformational ensamble
• Molecular docking and cofolding
• Molecular Dynamics simulations
• Enhanced sampling Molecular Dynamics simulations

Your Profile

The ideal applicant has a strong background in bioinformatics or computational chemistry, as well as data analysis and solid English-language skills. Experience with programming is highly recommended. Above-average interest in the topic, we consider self-motivation and the ability to face new professional challenges as self-evident prerequisites. The ability to work independently, outstanding team skills and organizational aptitude round-out the ideal profile.

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:

Prof. Dr. Antonella Di Pizio (a.dipizio.leibniz-lsb(at)tum.de).

More information on the working group can be found here: https://www.leibniz-lsb.de/forschung/forschungssektionen/sektion-iii.

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 2025-17-S3-ADP 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.