Doctoral position - Mechanisms of local translation Wiss2607-05 | Institute for Genetics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences

Rugarli Lab, Institute for Genetics I CECAD Research Center

We are one of the largest and oldest universities in Europe and one of the most important employers in our region. Our broad range of subjects, the dynamic development of our main research areas and our central location in Cologne make us attractive for students and researchers from around the world. We offer a wide range of career opportunities in science, technology, and administration.

A three-year doctoral position is available in the laboratory of Elena Rugarli (http://rugarli.cecad-labs.uni-koeln.de/). We are looking for a highly qualified and motivated doctoral student with a genuine interest to pursue a scientific career within our team. The Rugarli laboratory is part of the Cologne Excellence Cluster on Aging and Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD) and Institute for Genetics of the University of Cologne. The scientific environment is highly dynamic, interactive, international, and offers several opportunities of scientific exchange and collaborations.

YOUR TASKS

• Investigate basic mechanisms supporting local translation of mitochondrial proteins
• Contribute to the development of novel tools for studying mRNA trafficking and translational regulation
• Accurately document and analyse your data in accordance with good scientific practice

YOUR PROFILE

• Master‘s degree (or equivalent) with excellent academic performance in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or Biotechnology
• Strong research interest in Neuroscience and Cell biology
• Previous experience with primary neuronal cultures and/or iPSC-derived neurons will be considered as a plus
• Curious, motivated and committed to conducting high-quality research
• Excellent written and spoken English skills, with a strong sense of teamwork

WE OFFER

• Access to state-of-the-art core facilities and technologies
• A diverse working environment with equal opportunities
• Support in balancing work and family life
• Flexible working time models
• Extensive advanced training opportunities
• Occupational health management offers

The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and diversity. Women will be considered preferentially in accordance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (Landesgleichstellungsgesetz – LGG NRW). We also expressly welcome applications from all suitable candidates regardless of their gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

The position is to be filled part-time (65% / 25,89 hours per week) as soon as possible and is limited to three years. If the applicant meets the relevant wage requirements and has the appropriate personal qualifications, the salary is based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the pay scale for the German public sector.

Please apply online with proof of the required qualifications (without a photo) under https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de and include: a cover letter stating your motivation for applying to this position and research interests, proof of the required qualifications, a curriculum vitae, including the names and contact details of at least two references. The reference number is Wiss2607-05.
The application deadline is 31 August 2026.

For further inquiries, please contact Professor Dr Elena Rugarli at ([email protected]) and take a look at our FAQs.