PhD Position in reproductive mechanobiology (m/f/div) in Heidelberg

We, the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, are one of 85 institutes and research centers of the Max Planck Society (MPG) for the advancement of science. Our focus is on basic medical research. We currently employ around 270 people in science and administration, mainly at our location in Heidelberg. Another location for our institute is currently being established in Heilbronn. We are also part of the Health + Life Science Alliance Heidelberg Mannheim, an association of the region's leading life science research institutions.

The MPG strives for gender equality and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. As the MPG has set itself the goal of employing more people with severe disabilities, applications from people with severe disabilities are expressly welcome. In addition, the MPG wants to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore expressly encouraged to apply.

The female reproductive tract is a highly dynamic system in which tissue mechanics, active forces, and fluid flow interact with cellular and physiological processes. Yet, how these physical properties contribute to reproductive function remains poorly understood.

Position Overview

Within the ERC Starting Grant project REPROMECH – Quantitative Mechanics of the Oviduct: Force, Flow, and the Physiological Operating Point, our group investigates how forces and mechanical properties shape the function of the female reproductive system. We combine approaches from reproductive biology, mechanobiology, and experimental biophysics to quantitatively characterize living tissues across cellular and tissue scales.

The doctoral project will investigate the mechanical properties of the female reproductive tract and their relationship to tissue function.

Tasks

• Quantification of mechanical properties of the female reproductive tract using complementary mechanical measurements and advanced microscopy
• Preparation and culture of ex vivo tissue samples
• Histological characterization of biological samples
• Quantitative image and data analysis
• Critical analysis and interpretation of experimental results

Profile

• You hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in reproductive biology, developmental biology, biology, biophysics, physics, bioengineering, biomedical engineering, biotechnology, or a related discipline.
• We are looking for a candidate with strong experimental aptitude, excellent practical laboratory skills, manual dexterity, and a quantitative and analytical mindset.
• You should enjoy technically demanding experimental work, be able to interpret complex data critically and rigorously, and be motivated to work across disciplinary boundaries.
• Willingness to work with laboratory mice and to complete the required laboratory-animal training is essential.
• Previous experience in reproductive biology, experimental biophysics, microscopy, or work with laboratory animals is advantageous but not required. Candidates with a background in reproductive biology and an interest in quantitative and biophysical approaches are particularly encouraged to apply.
• Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English are required.

Our offer

• The position is funded for an initial period of three years within the ERC Starting Grant REPROMECH, with the possibility of extension, and is available from 1 January 2027 or as soon as possible.
• We offer a vibrant international research environment, access to state-of-the-art infrastructure for quantitative microscopy and mechanobiology, and opportunities for scientific training and conference participation.

Remuneration: 75% of pay group E13 under TVöD Bund.

Contact

For further information, please contact Dr. Stephanie Möllmert (stephanie.moellmert@mr.mpg.de).

For general questions, please contact Ms. Julia Gauglitz (julia.gauglitz@mr.mpg.de) from human resources.

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