About the role
The UFZ
The Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) is a world-leading institution in environmental research and a member of the Helmholtz Association, Germany’s largest scientific organisation. With approximately 1,200 employees across Leipzig, Halle, and Magdeburg, we have been conducting research since 1991 using a transdisciplinary approach to address the most pressing challenges of our time: biodiversity loss, climate change, and environmental pollution. Our goal is to translate excellent research into practical solutions for policymakers, business, and society, and to serve as a reliable partner in supporting transformation processes toward a sustainable and just future for current and future generations. We foster a culture of collaboration, openness, and diversity within a work environment that actively promotes creativity and personal development.
The job
How does chemical exposure influence adipocyte differentiation, placental functions and early metabolic programming?
Join our team to explore the obesogenic potential of environmental chemicals and investigate how they may already increase the risk of childhood overweight during pregnancy. This project builds on a pilot study in which potential obesogenic chemical candidates were identified through the analysis of childhood cohorts. You will work with MSC-derived adipocytes to study how selected environmental chemicals effect adipogenic differentiation. Additionally, their effects on placental cells, in particular their epigenetic landscape, will be investigated.
The position to prepare the Master's thesis is limited up to 12 months and will be supervised at the site in Leipzig.
Your tasks
You will support experimental investigations of the impact of chemical exposure on adipocyte differentiation, placental functions and early metabolic programming. Depending on the progress of the project, your tasks may include:
- Conducting laboratory experiments including cell culture techniques, cellular impedance measurements, cell staining and nucleic acid isolation,
- Investigating the effects of individual chemicals and chemical mixtures on cell development and differentiation,
- Learning and performing cell culture techniques to establish and maintain organoid models derived from primary material,
- Maintaining accurate laboratory records and contribute to reproducible experimental workflows,
- Data processing, analysis, visualization, and interpretation of experimental results.
We offer
- Excellent supervision that supports your personal and professional development
- Exciting insights into the work of a leading research institute
- The chance to work in interdisciplinary, international teams and benefit from a wide range of perspectives
- The opportunity to contribute and actively shape your own ideas and impulses
right from the start - Modern technical equipment and IT service to optimally support your work
Your profile
- Student in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Life Sciences or a related field
- Strong interest in early metabolic programming and influence of chemical exposure on placental functions
- Previous practical experience with cell cultures; experience with spheroid or organoid cell cultures is an advantage but not required
- Interest in experimental laboratory work and the ability to work systematically, independently, and accurately
- Good written and spoken English skills
How to apply
Read the full posting, then apply through the employer's own site. Applications are handled by the institution, not by AcademicGates.