PhD position – DNA Repair in Health and Disease

About TU Darmstadt

TU Darmstadt stands for excellent and relevant science. We play a key role in shaping profound global transformation processes – from the energy transition to artificial intelligence – through outstanding findings and forward-looking study programs. Our cutting-edge research is concentrated in three fields: Energy and Environment, Information and Intelligence, and Matter and Materials. As a university firmly rooted in the Frankfurt Rhine-Main metropolitan region and with a strong international focus, we are committed to European values ​​and European integration.

About our area

Shape the science of tomorrow – explore DNA repair with us!

In Prof. Markus Löbrich’s research group, we investigate the molecular mechanisms of DNA repair and their significance for maintaining health and the development of disease. Our focus is on the analysis of DNA double-strand breaks, the most serious form of DNA damage. These can arise from natural cellular processes or external influences such as ionizing radiation and chemotherapeutic agents. Our goal is to gain a better understanding of the cellular responses to this damage – from repair mechanisms to ensuring genetic stability. Supported by funding from the German Federal Ministry of Finance (BMFTR), the German Research Foundation (DFG), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), we utilize state-of-the-art technologies, including next-generation sequencing (NGS), high-resolution fluorescence microscopy, and innovative molecular and cell biological methods. Our research provides important insights that enable new approaches in radiation protection, aging research, and cancer therapy. You can find out more about our research group on our website .

Are you interested in exploring fundamental scientific questions that have direct applications in radiation protection, aging research, and cancer therapy? Join our team and help us connect basic research with real-world medical applications.

Your tasks

As a member of our team, you will

• To investigate DNA repair mechanisms and their implications for maintaining health and/or the development of diseases, with a focus on radiation-induced DNA damage. 
• Design/plan, conduct, and analyze experiments using advanced molecular and cell biological techniques.
• Modern technologies such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) and high-resolution imaging are used for molecular and cellular analyses.
• Work in an interdisciplinary and internationally networked research team and contribute to projects of high scientific relevance.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific reports, grant applications and publications in high-ranking scientific journals.
• Participating in the supervision of students at various academic levels
• Publish research results, present them internationally, and network in a collaborative and supportive research environment.

Your profile

 They have

• A very good academic university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics or a related field
• Solid knowledge in molecular biology, genome biology or bioinformatics, as well as a strong interest in radiation biology.
• Experience in cell culture and basic molecular biology techniques (required), advanced molecular techniques or microscopy (advantageous)
• High motivation, excellent problem-solving skills and pronounced critical thinking skills
• Self-initiative and independence, as well as the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Strong communication skills in English, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly and concisely.
• German language skills are an advantage.

We offer

The Technical University of Darmstadt offers diverse and challenging tasks, independent work, current technologies, good collegial and cooperative collaboration, needs-based training opportunities and individual personnel development.

We offer you the opportunity to prepare for a doctorate. The employment relationship also serves as academic training.

• Development and design – a comprehensive internal training program as well as opportunities for further qualification and development
• Vacation/Educational Leave – 30 days of vacation per year (for full-time employees) and 5 days of educational leave
• Sustainable and mobile – free travel entitlement in all regional transport in Hesse through the Hesse State Ticket according to the applicable fare regulations, as well as mobile working.
• Fit and healthy – free medical check-ups and a wide range of discounted sports activities
• Work-life balance – flexible working hours; company health management
• Old-age provision – supplementary pension scheme for public service employees (VBL) according to the applicable regulations
• Company bike/bike leasing
• Family-friendliness/Reconciliation of family/care/work – childcare services and payment of a child allowance (according to collective bargaining agreements), holiday programs

General Information / Data Protection

The Technical University of Darmstadt aims to increase the proportion of women on its staff and therefore particularly encourages women to apply. Applicants with a disability rating of at least 50% or those with equivalent status will be given preference if equally qualified. Remuneration is based on the collective agreement for the Technical University of Darmstadt (TV-TU Darmstadt). Part-time employment is generally possible.

By submitting your application, you consent to your data being stored and processed for the purpose of the recruitment process. You can find our privacy policy on our website.

Further information

For inquiries regarding this position, please contact Prof. Dr. Markus Löbrich at +49 6151 16 24 620 or lobrich@bio.tu-darmstadt.de.

Please apply with a cover letter, CV, scientific track record, relevant certificates and contact details of two references.