German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE), Potsdam-Rehbrücke

The German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke (DIfE) is a member of the Leibniz Association. The institute’s mission is to conduct experimental and clinical research in the field of nutrition and health, with the aim of understanding the molecular basis of nutrition-dependent diseases, and of developing new strategies for treatment and prevention.

1 Postdoc (m/f/d)

starting as soon as possible.

We are seeking a highly motivated Computational Biologist/Bioinformatician to join our team which focuses on understanding how obesity and type 2 diabetes reshape the epigenome.

The project pursues two major objectives. Using lean and obese mouse models together with translational validation in humans, we first investigate how interventions such as intermittent fasting, endurance training, and bariatric surgery modulate disease-induced molecular changes. Our second goal aims to identify epigenetic markers in blood cells of individuals at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes and its complications.

Tasks

• Perform end-to-end data analysis, including quality control, data integration, and inference of regulatory networks
• Analyze and interpret multiome datasets (e.g., transcriptomics, epigenomics and related modalities)
• Apply advanced computational and statistical methods for integrative analysis of multi-layer biological data
• Develop clear data visualizations, reports, and written summaries to communicate results
• Collaborate closely with laboratory scientists to translate biological questions into computational analyses

Skills and requirements

• Excellent master and doctoral degree in Computational Science/Bioinformatics
• Strong background in biological fundamentals, including genetics and epigenetics
• Expertise in programming languages such as R or Python
• Experience with multiome data analysis (e.g. methylomics, Lipidomics, Proteomics, ATAC-seq)
• Proven experience with advanced computational methods such as deep and machine learning algorithms
• Strong communication skills and ability to work in interdisciplinary teams
• Fluency in spoken and written English

We offer:

• A dynamic and interactive research environment as well as excellent working conditions and outstanding technical equipment
• Remuneration according to TV-L, level 13, plus annual special payment and company pension scheme
• Family-friendly working conditions (certificate "audit berufundfamilie”)
• Supporting of mobility with a jobticket for using the public transport
• Easy accessibility by public transport or car (including free parking)
• 30 days of vacation
• Participation in the benefits program for employees ("Corporate Benefits")

The advertised position is available for 2 years.

We promote the employment of people with severe disabilities and are committed to equal opportunities for them. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration if they have the same qualifications.

Contact:

Please send your documents (cover letter explaining your motivation, CV, copies of degrees/certificates and references) with reference number 2026_W01_L as a single pdf-file before February 18th, 2026 via e-mail to jobs(at)dife.de.

For further information please do not hesitate to contact:

PD Dr. Heike Vogel

We process your application documents for the purpose of carrying out the application procedure in accordance with Art. 6 para. 1 lit. b) GDPR, Art. 88 GDPR. For more information on the collection, processing and use of personal data by the German Institute of Human Nutrition as part of the application process and your rights under data protection law, please contact the Department of Human Resources and Social Services (jobs(at)dife.de).