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 DIfE is a partner of the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD).

We invite applications for the Department of Molecular Epidemiology (MEP) for

1 Postdoc (m/f/d)

starting as soon as possible.

Tasks:

The position is embedded in DZD-funded research on metabolic flexibility - the body’s ability to switch between carbohydrate and fat metabolism - and its role in the progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes and in shifts from low- to high-risk subtypes. Using dynamic measures of glucose and lipid regulation (oral glucose tolerance tests, mixed-meal tests, and continuous glucose monitoring), we aim to identify early markers that predict T2D onset and assess whether they are modifiable through nutrition. Analyses will draw on the EPIC-DZD substudy of the EPIC-Potsdam cohort and the NAKO Health Study.

Skills and requirements:

• Exceptionally qualified applicants from academic backgrounds in biomedical science and PhD degree
• Expertise in epidemiological methods by training of public health/epidemiology
• Expertise in statistical software packages (R or SAS)
• Research experience in the field of type 2 diabetes and cardiometabolic traits and/or nutrition would be an asset
• Highly motivated and the desire to interact with different national and international research groups
• Ability to work independently
• Excellent English (in speaking and writing) and computer skills
• Solid publication record

We offer:

• A dynamic and interactive research environment as well as excellent working conditions and state-of-the-art equipment
• Close collaboration with national and international project partners
• 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 3 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_W05_L as a single pdf-file before May 29th, 2026 via e-mail to jobs(at)dife.de.

For further information please do not hesitate to contact:

Prof. Dr. Matthias Schulze

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).