PhD Position in Proteostasis and Aging Research
Explore the therapeutic potential of small molecule modulators to combat aging and neurodegenerative diseases through cutting-edge proteostasis research.
Best for:Best for ambitious life sciences researchers with a master’s degree in biology, biochemistry, or related fields, eager to explore aging mechanisms and therapeutic interventions using molecular and organismal models.
Overview
This PhD position at the International PhD Programme (IPP) Mainz offers the opportunity to investigate how small organic osmolytes influence proteostasis and aging. Under the supervision of Anton Khmelinskii and Jan Padeken, the project focuses on dissecting the mechanisms by which molecules like betaine and taurine mitigate proteotoxic stress in human cells and *C. elegans*. The research aims to address critical questions about cellular and organismal physiology, stress mitigation, and potential therapeutic applications for neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s. The successful candidate will engage in interdisciplinary research, leveraging techniques in transcriptomics, proteomics, cell biology, and advanced microscopy within a vibrant international PhD community.
What you'll do
- Investigate the effects of small organic osmolytes (e.g., betaine, taurine) on cellular and organismal physiology using human cell models and *C. elegans*.
- Develop and apply advanced experimental techniques, including transcriptomics, proteomics, fluorescence microscopy, and high-throughput mutagenesis screening.
- Address key research questions on stress mitigation, protein misfolding pathologies, and potential therapeutic interventions for neurodegenerative diseases.
- Collaborate with the Khmelinskii and Padeken research groups to integrate findings across molecular, cellular, and organismal scales.
- Present research findings at international conferences and publish results in high-impact scientific journals.
- Participate in interdisciplinary training programs and core facility workshops offered by the IPP Mainz.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree or equivalent in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related life sciences discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; good command (equivalent to C1 level)
Instruction: English
- Proven research experience in molecular or cellular biology
- Familiarity with techniques such as PCR, Western blotting, and fluorescence microscopy
- Strong written and spoken English proficiency for scientific communication
- Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team environment
- Open to applicants from any nationality
- No age restrictions
- No prior experience caps beyond a completed master’s degree
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-15 (Europe/Berlin)
Applicants must apply through the IPP Mainz application platform by selecting the Khmelinskii/Padeken group as their preferred research group. The application requires a CV, a cover letter, and two letters of reference. Detailed instructions and the application form are available on the IPP Mainz website.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter detailing research motivation and background
- Two letters of reference
Contact
International PhD Programme (IPP) Mainz· PhD Programme Coordinator
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