Research Associate / PhD Candidate (all genders) - Institute of Anatomy and Experimental Morphology

Research Associate / PhD Candidate (all genders) - Institute of Anatomy and Experimental Morphology

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Job-ID: J000006830

Contract Type: Temporary

Employment Type: Part time

Closing Date: 24.08.2026

Organization: UKE_Zentrum für Experimentelle Medizin

Category: Research & Science

Department: Institut für Anatomie und Experimentelle Morphologie

Main tasks

The Institute of Anatomy and Experimental Morphology seeks a highly motivated PhD student. The position is a part of a structured doctoral program at UKE. It will be filled starting October 1, 2026 (or by arrangement), at 65 % of standard weekly working hours, fixed-term for 3 years under the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG). An extension of the position is possible.

The research in the institute centers on cell-cell interactions and their role in regulating fundamental functions at cell, tissue and organ level. A disruption of cell-cell adhesion homeostasis causes life-threatening diseases, which we aim to understand on the molecular level to define tailored treatment options.

Project overview:

The role of cell-cell adhesion in modulating melanoma pathogenesis (PI: Maitreyi Rathod)

This research aims to understand how loss of cell-cell interactions in the skin drives melanoma development and progression, using epidermal organoid models, mouse models and patient-derived data. This work is expected to uncover previously unknown mechanisms of cell-cell adhesion-mediated keratinocyte-melanocyte crosstalk, identify molecular signatures predisposing to melanoma, and reveal new therapeutic targets within the adhesion-mediated signaling network. The project builds on recently published work from the group (Rathod et al., 2024, Journal of Cell Biology, Rathod et al., 2025, JCI insight, Franz et al., 2024, Nature Communications).

Your responsibilities:

Analysis of the interplay of cell-cell adhesion on melanoma development and progression

Application of various skin and melanoma model systems (mouse models, reconstituted co-culture 3D skin equivalents, epidermal organoids)

Use of state-of-the-art imaging techniques (confocal and super-resolution microscopy) together with CRISPR-based gene editing and scRNA-seq

Your Profile

A completed scientific university degree in Biomedicine, Biology, Molecular Life Sciences, another natural science

Solid knowledge of molecular biology with an interest in cell biology and translational medicine

Prior experience with mouse models, 3D model systems, melanoma model systems, or bioinformatic analysis of OMIC datasets is an advantage

Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English

Enthusiasm for being part of a young, international, and interactive scientific team

Immunity status

Please note that employment is contingent upon proof of immunization or immunity against the measles virus, in accordance with applicable legal and medical requirements. Documentation (e.g., vaccination certificate) must be provided before employment begins.

Our Offer

A dynamic team in a creative research environment with a broad methodological spectrum and excellent further training opportunities

An active and supportive national and international scientific network (collaborations, lab visits, scientific conferences)

Fair and transparent compensation in accordance with our collective bargaining agreement ( TVöD/VKA ) (€ 63,600 – € 91,100), taking into account qualifications and professional experience. The salary range applies to