Research Associate / PhD Candidate (all genders) - Institute of Anatomy and Experimental Morphology

The Institute of Anatomy and Experimental Morphology seeks a highly motivated PhD student. The position is a part of a structured doctoral program at UKE. It will be filled starting October 1, 2026 (or by arrangement), at 65 % of standard weekly working hours, fixed-term for 3 years under the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG). An extension of the position is possible.

The research in the institute centers on cell-cell interactions and their role in regulating fundamental functions at cell, tissue and organ level. A disruption of cell-cell adhesion homeostasis causes life-threatening diseases, which we aim to understand on the molecular level to define tailored treatment options.

Project overview:

The role of cell-cell adhesion in modulating melanoma pathogenesis (PI: Maitreyi Rathod)

This research aims to understand how loss of cell-cell interactions in the skin drives melanoma development and progression, using epidermal organoid models, mouse models and patient-derived data. This work is expected to uncover previously unknown mechanisms of cell-cell adhesion-mediated keratinocyte-melanocyte crosstalk, identify molecular signatures predisposing to melanoma, and reveal new therapeutic targets within the adhesion-mediated signaling network. The project builds on recently published work from the group (Rathod et al., 2024, Journal of Cell Biology, Rathod et al., 2025, JCI insight, Franz et al., 2024, Nature Communications).

Your responsibilities:

• Analysis of the interplay of cell-cell adhesion on melanoma development and progression
• Application of various skin and melanoma model systems (mouse models, reconstituted co-culture 3D skin equivalents, epidermal organoids)
• Use of state-of-the-art imaging techniques (confocal and super-resolution microscopy) together with CRISPR-based gene editing and scRNA-seq

• A completed scientific university degree in Biomedicine, Biology, Molecular Life Sciences, another natural science
• Solid knowledge of molecular biology with an interest in cell biology and translational medicine
• Prior experience with mouse models, 3D model systems, melanoma model systems, or bioinformatic analysis of OMIC datasets is an advantage
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English
• Enthusiasm for being part of a young, international, and interactive scientific team

• A dynamic team in a creative research environment with a broad methodological spectrum and excellent further training opportunities
• An active and supportive national and international scientific network (collaborations, lab visits, scientific conferences)
• Fair and transparent compensation in accordance with our collective bargaining agreement (TVöD/VKA) (€ 63,600 – € 91,100), taking into account qualifications and professional experience. The salary range applies to a full-time position of 38.5 hours per week. The amounts listed are guidelines and do not constitute a salary guarantee.
• Targeted and individualized professional development at both the technical and project levels is provided, offering long-term prospects in a meaningful work environment
• Comprehensive continuing education and training programs at our UKE Academy for Education and Career
• Opportunities to help shape our “UKE INside” personnel policy through cross-functional and cross-hierarchical projects
• Sustainable commuting: Subsidies for the Deutschlandticket as a job ticket and Dr. Bike bicycle service
• Excellent health, prevention, and sports programs
• Family-friendly work environment: Partnerships for childcare, free vacation care, counseling for employees with family members requiring care
• A secure job, meaningful work, and a supportive team environment
• Structured onboarding and open knowledge sharing within the team
• Our employee restaurant offers a wide variety of culinary options; additional options are available at the “Health Kitchen” cafés and bistros and at a supermarket located directly on the premises

We live diversity and value variety

We offer a work environment that provides equal opportunities regardless of age, gender, sexual identity, disability, ethnic and social origin, or religion. This is confirmed by our accession to the Charter of Diversity. We explicitly aim to increase the proportion of women in management positions, especially among scientific personnel in research and teaching. Women with equal qualifications will be given priority. The same applies in the case of under-representation of one gender in the advertised area. Persons with severe disabilities with equal aptitude, competence, and professional performance will be given priority.

> Learn more about "Diversity at UKE" here.