10 PhD positions in the Research Training Group “EpiSignal - Crosstalk of epigenome chromatin modification networks and intracellular signaling pathways”

The EpiSignal RTG (www.grk3112.uni-stuttgart.de/) funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) studies the crosstalk of intracellular signaling pathways and chromatin modification networks. EpiSignal aims to increase the molecular understanding of how the complex networks of cell and epigenome signaling systems determine cell responses and phenotypes, during normal cell development and differentiation, but also in the progression of diseases such as cancer.

The EpiSignal faculty comprises nine groups from the University of Stuttgart and one from the University of Tübingen. The team combines strong, internationally recognized expertise in the fields of biochemistry, cell biology, molecular (epi)genetics and systems biology. All principal investigators are highly qualified leaders and experts in cutting-edge technologies, with strong publication records in their fields, and experienced in the supervision and mentoring of doctoral researchers.

Considering the growing demand for experts in this exciting field of biomedical research, EpiSignal offers a state-of-the-art interdisciplinary training program at the intersection of cell signaling and molecular epigenetics, that optimally prepares doctoral researchers for future career paths in academia or industry. The EpiSignal qualification program includes interdisciplinary lecture series and workshops, regular scientific seminars with progress and paper presentations, annual retreats with international visiting scientists, tech schools with peer-to-peer training in advanced methods, training in transferable skills, lab visits abroad, industrial internships and conference participation.

EpiSignal comprises 10 innovative, interdisciplinary projects exploring the overall theme of the RTG from different directions using diverse scientific approaches and methodologies. Information about the individual projects can be found at: www.grk3112.uni-stuttgart.de/research/.

Your benefits

• Cutting-edge research projects providing outstanding doctoral topics and excellent experimental and theoretical training in the relevant disciplines
• Early involvement of doctoral researchers in independent research
• Unique, interdisciplinary education in an emerging field of biomedical research
• Excellent training program for scientific and transferable skills providing all necessary skills for a successful career in academia or industry
• Highly engaged joint supervision by two principal investigators from different research fields 
• Competitive salary (TVL-E13; 65%), secured funding for up to 4 years
• Modern lab space and up-to-date equipment
• Friendly, cooperative and stimulating working environment

Your Profile

• Strong interest in the disciplines and research topics covered by EpiSignal
• Enthusiasm for science and a high degree of motivation
• Strong ambitions to conduct interdisciplinary research in this emerging field
• Solid theoretical knowledge and experimental skills in topics related to the EpiSignal projects
• A completed master's or diploma degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, molecular (epi)genetics, systems biology, chemical biology, or related disciplines
• Excellent communication and interaction skills
• Proficient written and spoken English communication skills

Job details

• You will work on a selected project of the Research Training Group and participate in the qualification program of the RTG.
• One PhD position in each of the EpiSignal projects (TVL-E13; 65%) for four years
• Location: University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 31, 70569 Stuttgart (Projects 1-8, and 10), or University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 34, 72076 Tübingen (Project 9).
• Starting date: 1.10.2025

Your Application

Your application should be provided as single pdf (no larger than 10 MB) including the following items in the corresponding order:

• Applicant data sheet (available at www.grk3112.uni-stuttgart.de/jobs/), in which you are asked to select up to three projects you would like to work in
• Motivation letter with a brief description of qualifications, research background, and why you are interested in the position (max. 1 page)
• Curriculum vitae
• Title and summary of M.Sc. Thesis (max. 2 pages, also provide if thesis is not yet finished)
• Scan of degree diplomas (English or German)
• Transcript of records (courses and grades, English or German)

Application deadline: May 18, 2025

Applications are exclusively accepted by email to [email protected].

Contact
Dr. Sara Weirich
Program Manager 
Institute of Biochemistry
University Stuttgart
Allmandring 31
D-70569 Stuttgart
Germany
[email protected]