The Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research (Dr. Karin Ziegler)  in Bad Nauheim (near Frankfurt, Germany) invites applications for a PhD Student (m/f/d) to study the molecular mechanisms of sympathetic dysfunction in disease. Reference number 2025_21.

The Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research in Bad Nauheim (near Frankfurt) is a leading international research institution with a focus on molecular organ biology. While cardiovascular and pulmonary biology is of special interest, several other research subjects are being investigated. The institute has a history of more than 90 years. Since its re-founding in 2005, our major goals are to investigate cellular and molecular processes in organ development as well as under pathological conditions in vitro and in vivo.

The Autonomic Research Group (Dr. Karin Ziegler) is looking for a PhD candidate to investigate the molecular fingerprint of sympathetic dysfunction in different disease models to identify novel therapeutic pathways.

Job Description

Dysfunction of the sympathetic nervous system is a key pathophysiological feature in many cardiovascular diseases and contributes critically to disease progression and poor outcomes. Chronic overactivation of the SNS leads to structural and functional remodeling of the heart, including hypertrophy, impaired contractility, and fibrosis. These maladaptive changes arise from sustained tissue stress and neurohumoral imbalance, driving pathological crosstalk between cardiomyocytes, fibroblasts, and immune cells. Despite its central role in cardiovascular pathology, the mechanisms that initiate and maintain sympathetic overactivity remain incompletely understood. Using advanced mouse and rat models, this project aims to dissect the molecular and cellular drivers of sympathetic dysfunction and its downstream effects on cardiac remodeling. A combination of molecular profiling, imaging, and functional analyses will be applied to identify key regulators linking neuronal activation, inflammation, and tissue remodeling. In addition, the models will serve to evaluate pharmacological interventions that modulate sympathetic signaling to prevent or reverse disease progression.

Requirements

The ideal candidate has the following qualifications:

• Successfully completed scientific university studies (Master’s degree; or close to completion) in a relevant field such as biology, biochemistry or a related discipline with a strong focus on molecular biology, cell biology or biochemistry is preferred
• Previous experience working with mice or rats is an advantage but not required

Our Offer

• An opportunity to work in an international team
• Our researchers have the opportunity to work on various model systems by making use of the latest cutting-edge technologies
• Researchers are supported by state-of-the-art core facilities which offer services in next-generation sequencing, proteomics, bioinformatics, cytometry, microscopy, and small animal imaging

The Max Planck Institute for stands for Heart and Lung Research a collaborative, diverse and inclusive workplace culture and promotes equal opportunities. We strongly encourage applications from members of any underrepresented group in our research area. In particular, we invite and motivate women and individuals with disabilities to apply.

Your Application

Are you interested? Then we look forward to receiving your application!  Please provide the following documents (CV; Contact details of at least two references, Letter of motivation (max. 1 page) of your research experience and interests via our application portal by 30.11.2025.