Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) in Diabetes and Stem Cell Biology

The Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association aims to transform tomorrow’s medicine through our discoveries of today. At locations in Berlin-Buch, Berlin-Mitte, Heidelberg and Mannheim, our scientists collaborate across disciplines to unravel the complexities of disease at the systems level – from molecules and cells to organs and entire organisms. Through strong academic, clinical, and industry partnerships, as well as global networks, we translate biological insights into innovations for early detection, individualized therapies, and disease prevention. Founded in 1992, the Max Delbrück Center is home to a vibrant community of 1,800 people from more than 70 countries.

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) to join the group of Prof. Maike Sander at the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in Berlin. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a deeper understanding of how transcription factors shape beta-cell maturation by applying state-of-the-art multi-omic approaches in an international, vibrant, and collaborative research environment.

In a multidisciplinary effort, the Sander lab combines single-cell genomics, human stem cell models, and bioengineering approaches to investigate transcriptional and cell–cell signaling mechanisms underlying type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will design and implement innovative research strategies using human pluripotent stem cells to generate advanced model systems for studying beta-cell maturation and failure.

You will apply state-of-the-art molecular biology and tissue culture methods, along with next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, including single-cell sequencing, to interrogate transcriptional networks.

A central focus of your work will be the systematic analysis and interpretation of multi-omic datasets to uncover novel regulatory mechanisms. You will independently evaluate results, formulate hypotheses, and drive projects toward publication.

Job Description

In addition, you will:

• Preparation and documentation of research findings: You will produce comprehensive progress reports, draft scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, and design presentations for both national and international conferences.
  
• Presentation of scientific work: You will represent and communicate your research outcomes through talks and poster presentations at scientific meetings worldwide, thereby strengthening the international visibility of the research group.
  
• Contribution to methodological and technical innovation: You will develop and test novel technical approaches, optimize existing methods, and actively foster scientific discussions within the research environment.
  
• Engagement in collaborative projects: You will take an active role in joint research efforts, coordinate tasks with partner laboratories, and contribute to the successful implementation of interdisciplinary initiatives.

Requirements

We are looking for a researcher (m/f/d) with:

• Completed PhD: You hold a PhD in stem cell biology, molecular and cell biology, biomedical engineering, or a related discipline, with a clear and demonstrated focus on diabetes research.
  
• Experience with iPSC models and data analysis: Hands-on experience with induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models and/or the analysis of high-throughput sequencing data is highly desirable.
  
• Expertise in multi-omic data analysis: Proven skills in the systematic analysis and interpretation of complex multi-omic datasets, ideally complemented by bioinformatics approaches, are welcome.
  
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills: You bring excellent interpersonal abilities that enable effective collaboration in a multidisciplinary and international research environment.

We offer

• international working environment with communication in English and German
• interesting career opportunities and a range of opportunities for further qualification and training
• Compatibility of family and career certified by the workandfamily audit (“berufundfamilie audit”)
• Support for "New Berliners" through the MDC Welcome & Family Office

You also benefit from:

• a remuneration in accordance with the collective agreement for the federal public service (TVöD-Bund), including additional company pension schemes
• flexible working hours and childcare support
• an idyllic green campus, which is easily accessible by bicycle, public transport or car
• free use of Nextbike from the Buch S-Bahn station to the campus
• Subsidy for the job ticket as well as discounts in the campus canteen
• On-campus health and fitness center
• additional health benefits such as flu vaccination, eye test, ergonomics advice at the workplace