About us
IMB (www.imb.de) is a research institute on the campus of Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany. It is generously funded by the Boehringer Ingelheim Foundation and the state of Rhineland-Palatinate. Our research focuses on the biology of the cell nucleus and ranges from the molecular level to systems and computational approaches. Researchers at IMB are supported by strong core facilities that offer state-of-the-art equipment and training in protein production, microscopy, proteomics, cytometry, genomics and bioinformatics.
The position
Get research experience with the possibility to prestart a PhD Student Position
Ageing is commonly believed to start in adulthood. However, there is increasing evidence that organismic ageing begins already during embryonic development. This indicates that mechanisms of ageing may be productively studied during embryogenesis. Following this notion, you will study the role of progeria genes, which lead to premature ageing, in frog (Xenopus) embryos in the laboratory of Prof Christof Niehrs. We have recently shown that epigenetic clock is applicable to frogs as it is in humans (Zoller et al. DNA methylation clocks for clawed frogs reveal evolutionary conservation of epigenetic aging. (2024) Geroscience). Using epigenetic clock analysis, you will characterize cellular ageing and senescence in developing frog tissues using immunofluorescence microscopy. You will analyze epigenetic profiles in premature ageing embryos including by Next Generation Sequencing, to understand the molecular network involved in these phenotypes. You will learn to analyze these Big Data by bioinformatic analysis. You will work in a team of developmental biologists and bioinformaticians. Methods used: Standard molecular biology techniques, frog embryo culture & microinjection, RNA in situ hybridisation, confocal microscopy, Next Generation Sequencing, computational Omics data analysis.
During your time as Research Assistant you will have the opportunity to apply for and transfer to the International PhD Programme (IPP).
Requirements
- Masters degree in a relevant biomedical area
- Preferably experience in developmental biology (fish, frog)
- Good communication skills and good team spirit
- Ability to solve problems independently
- Fluent in English (spoken and written)
Why join us?
We offer a stimulating, diverse and international research environment, with a pleasant working atmosphere, and informal culture. The institute is modern, well-equipped and centrally located with good public transport links and parking.
Our offer
- Competitive salary and favourable pension scheme
- Advanced training opportunities
- Flexible working hours
- Employee events
- Job Ticket
What else you need to know
- Starting Date: By September 2025
- Duration: initially 6 months with possibility of up to 5y PhD student position pending on successful IPP application
- Deadline: 15th May 2025
- International applicants: we will assist you through the visa process, and also with your application for a residence/work permit after your arrival in Mainz.
Have we sparked your interest?
To apply, please upload your application containing your cover letter stating research and career interests, CV, scans of your degrees (including copies of Abitur- and Master degree if existing) to our application form on imb.de/jobs/scientific-positions. Should you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact us by email hr(at)imb-mainz.de, quoting Ref. No. #CNRA01. Informal enquires should be addressed to Prof Christof Niehrs. IMB is an equal opportunity employer.