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.

The Department of Experimental Diabetology (DIAB) invites applications for

1 Postdoc (m/f/d)

starting as soon as possible.

We are seeking an outstanding and highly motivated Molecular Biologist to join our interdisciplinary research team investigating how obesity and type 2 diabetes remodel the epigenome. Our work aims to identify disease-associated genes and epigenetic regulatory mechanisms, with a particular focus on miRNA-mediated control of metabolic adaptation. Using well-established lean and obese mouse models alongside translational validation in human tissues, we explore how lifestyle interventions such as intermittent fasting and endurance training can reverse or normalize disease-induced molecular alterations.

Tasks:

• Develop and lead epigenetics-focused research projects with a strong emphasis on miRNA-dependent regulatory mechanisms in metabolic disease
• Analyze miRNA expression profiles in murine models and human samples following lifestyle interventions
• Perform functional manipulation of miRNAs in vitro and in vivo to assess their roles in gene regulation and metabolic adaptation
• Identify and characterize miRNA target genes and regulatory networks using complementary molecular and bioinformatic approaches
• Integrate epigenetic, transcriptomic and phenotypic data to generate mechanistic insights into metabolic adaptation
• Prepare scientific reports, presentations and manuscripts to communicate project results to the international community

Skills and requirements:

• Excellent master and doctoral degree in Molecular Biology or a related life science discipline
• Strong background in genetics and epigenetics, preferably with experience in miRNA analysis
• Experience with transcriptomic and/or epigenomic data analysis
• Strong communication skills and ability to work in interdisciplinary teams
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken

We expect interested and committed candidates.

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_W04_L as a single pdf-file before April 30^th, 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).