PhD Position/ Scientific Employee (m/f/d)

The PhD candidate will investigate

• PTEN-dependent changes in teeth and periodontal tissues, craniofacial and alveolar bone, and the TMJ
• Cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying altered bone remodeling and craniofacial tissue homeostasis after postnatal PTEN deletion
• Spatially resolved tissue responses and their relationship to PTEN-associated adipose/metabolic changes

Methods and Approaches

The project combines state-of-the-art experimental and computational techniques, including:

• Inducible transgenic mouse models and genetic reporter systems
• Histology, immunofluorescence, advanced microscopy, and micro-computed tomography
• Spatial transcriptomics of dental, periodontal, bone, and TMJ tissues
• Molecular biology, quantitative image analysis, proteomic integration, and bioinformatic analyses

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with:

• Master of Science degree or a Diploma in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics or Chemistry
• Interest in craniofacial biology, mechanobiology, or regenerative medicine
• Experience in molecular biology, cell biology, animal models, and/or bioinformatics
• Strong motivation to work in an international and interdisciplinary research environment
• Good communication skills and proficiency in English

Research Environment

The project is embedded in the Department of Orthodontics at Leipzig University Medical Center. Our research focuses on craniofacial biology, tooth and periodontal tissue homeostasis, skeletal remodeling, genetic mouse models, advanced imaging, and spatial omics. The collaboration with Dr. Antje Garten provides complementary expertise in PTEN biology, metabolism, and adipose tissue, enabling the PhD candidate to connect local craniofacial phenotypes with systemic metabolic alterations.

Institution: Department für Kopf- und Zahnmedizin, Poliklinik für Kieferorthopädie

Type of employment: Fixed-term position for 3 years (third-party funded)

Working Hours: part-time (26,00h)

Start date:

Remuneration: TV-L 13

• A fully funded PhD position (3 years)
• Participation in an international research collaboration
• Access to cutting-edge technologies, including spatial transcriptomics and advanced imaging
• A dynamic and collaborative research environment
• Opportunities for international exchange and conference participation

How to apply

Please apply with a single PDF containing a cover letter describing your previous research experience and motivation to join our lab; curriculum vitae; copies of relevant qualifications (degree, diploma and, if applicable, animal-course certificates); and the contact details of two referees

Apply now for this position via our applicant portal by 31 October 2026 .

Your contact person

For further information about the application process, please contact Dr. Julian Petersen (E: ).

Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration if equally qualified. Please include relevant supporting documentation with your application.

Please note that, due to legal requirements, we can only employ applicants who are immune to measles. You will be required to provide the relevant proof of immunity.

For information on data protection, please visit: Data protection

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