About us:

Have you ever wondered how time itself shapes biology? Nearly every cell in the body contains a circadian clock — an intrinsic 24-hour timing system that coordinates gene expression, metabolism and cellular communication. Yet we still understand surprisingly little about how these clocks influence disease.

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability worldwide. Intriguingly, both clinical and experimental studies show that the time of day at which a stroke occurs can significantly influence its severity and outcome. Why does this happen? And could understanding the brain’s cells internal timing system open entirely new therapeutic possibilities?

If you would like to contribute to answering these questions, we invite you to join our team (Maria Robles, Systems Chronobiology) in a collaborative project with the group of Steffen Tiedt (Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research) within the newly established DFG Collaborative Research Center on neurovascular diseases (CRC 1744).

You will investigate how circadian clocks in endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and neurons interact to shape stroke progression — and whether disrupting (such as interfering with sleep) or restoring circadian balance leads to detrimental or improved outcomes, respectively.

This PhD project offers the opportunity to work at the interface of systems chronobiology, neurovascular biology, and translational medicine. You will use cutting-edge quantitative proteomics and integrate multi-omics data with advanced imaging, as well as mouse models, to uncover fundamental principles of how biological timing regulates brain injury.

PhD Position in Systems Chronobiology and Neurovascular Research (m/f/x)

in Planegg

Your tasks and responsibilities:

• Perform quantitative proteomics and phosphoproteomics analyses (LC-MS/MS) of brain and vascular cell populations.
• Integrate multi-omics datasets (proteomics, transcriptomics, spatial data) in collaboration with bioinformatics experts.
• Conduct sleep deprivation and circadian disruption experiments in mouse models.
• Contribute to molecular and biochemical analyses.
• Participate in CRC 1744 activities and the Integrated Research Training Group (IRTG).

Your qualifications:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Biochemistry or a related field.
• Strong interest in circadian and systems biology.
• Experience in proteomics, biochemistry, and molecular biology.
• Proficient or, at least medium, skills in bioinformatics, omics data analysis, and coding.
• Previous experience with mouse models is an advantage but not mandatory.
• Good communication skills in English and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary and international team, with enthusiasm for a collaborative research environment.
• High motivation, independence, and strong analytical skills.

Benefits:

• A fully funded PhD position (65% TV-L E13) for up to three to four years.
• Accessibility to state-of-the-art proteomics and training in multi-omics integration.
• Close supervision in an internationally recognized chronobiology laboratory.
• Access to advanced core facilities and collaborative Biomedical Center and CRC infrastructure.
• Participation in structured doctoral training through CRC 1744 IRTG and in our BMC initiatives (e.g. BMC Green Lab, Public Outreach and diversity and inclusion).
• Opportunities to attend and present at national and international conferences.
• A vibrant and international research environment at the Biomedical Center (BMC) and LMU Munich that actively supports PhD students and early-career researchers.
  
  

LMU Munich is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from women and individuals from underrepresented groups. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. The promotion of diversity is an important strategic goal at BMC. This is reflected in the BMC Code of Conduct, which actively promotes diversity and equal opportunities.

People with disabilities who are equally as qualified as other applicants will receive preferential treatment.

Contact:

Please submit a single PDF including:

• Cover letter describing your motivation and research interests
• CV
• Academic transcripts
• Contact details of two referees

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

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