PhD Positions (m/f/d) in Biomedical Research

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 researchers harness interdisciplinary collaboration to decipher the complexities of disease at the systems level – from molecules and cells to organs and the entire organism. Through academic, clinical, and industry partnerships, as well as global networks, we strive to translate biological discoveries into applications that enable the early detection of deviations from health, personalize treatment, and ultimately prevent disease. First founded in 1992, the Max Delbrück Center today inspires and nurtures a diverse talent pool of 1,800 people from over 70 countries. We are 90 percent funded by the German federal government and 10 percent by the state of Berlin.

As a PhD researcher in the MDC International PhD Program, you will conduct an independent research project in the field of biomedical sciences. You will work in an international and interdisciplinary research environment and benefit from a structured doctoral program offering extensive scientific and transferable skills training. Your research will contribute to advancing the understanding of biological mechanisms underlying health and disease.

Job Description

• PhD opportunities at MDC in collaboration with Humboldt University, Charité, and HI-TAC (Mannheim/​Heidelberg)
• Research on the fundamental mechanisms of health and disease with clinical relevance
• Broad range of research areas, including AI, cancer research, neuroscience, immunology, data science, and omics technologies
• Structured, international PhD program with approximately 350 doctoral researchers
• Excellent, collaborative, and inclusive research environment
• Individual supervision, mentoring, and comprehensive training and development opportunities
• Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and core facilities
• Regular scientific events (seminars, journal clubs, symposia, retreats)
• Travel grants for conferences and external courses
• Working language: English
• Option to affiliate with the HEIBRiDS Data Science School
• Locations in Berlin-Buch and Berlin-Mitte with a modern research environment
• Family-friendly support (e.g., daycare, parent-child room)
• Berlin as an attractive scientific hub with a diverse cultural and social environment
• HI-TAC as an additional site focusing on cardiovascular research and clinical translation
• Integration into an international and interdisciplinary research network

Requirements

• Highly motivated early-career scientists with a strong interest in life sciences and/or data sciences
• Graduates in relevant fields (e.g., biology, biotechnology, medicine, chemistry, computer science, data science, engineering, mathematics, physics, or related disciplines)
• Applicants holding a Master’s degree or expecting to complete it by January 2027 at the latest
• Motivated individuals eager to actively contribute to current challenges in biology and medicine
• Candidates with a strong ambition to contribute to and shape excellent scientific research

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
• a secure job
• flexible working hours and childcare support
• the possibility of mobile working
• 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

Salary Remuneration will be according to the TVöD Bund pay category E13, depending on qualification. Employment volume full time, 39 h/week Desired starting date January 4, 2027 Limitation Fixed term appointments are made for an initial period of 3 years with the possibility of extension. Application period August 24, 2026 Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Excellence in science and innovation depends on a diverse, inclusive, and respectful environment. At the Max Delbrück Center, we are committed to creating such a space – one where individuals from all backgrounds can grow scientifically, professionally, and personally. As a values-driven research institute, we recognize that diversity of thought, experience, and identity is essential to our mission: advancing biomedical research to transform tomorrow’s medicine. We foster a culture of curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and shared responsibility for equity and openness. We welcome applications from individuals of all genders, cultures, backgrounds, and life experiences, especially those who bring new perspectives and a collaborative spirit to our international team. Applicants are considered based on qualifications and experience, free from discrimination. We particularly welcome applications from individuals with disabilities and will ensure appropriate support is provided.

Please get in touch with any questions

Dr. Hanna Singer 
Scientific Talent Unit
phdrecruitment@mdc-berlin.de

Please submit your applications via the Max Delbrück Center application portal by August 24, 2026.

If you have a foreign degree, please submit proof of the recognition of your Master's degree in Germany with your application. The proof can be determined via the anabin database and can be submitted as a PDF attachment to the application. Further information can be found at Recognition of Degrees and Achievements.

MDC Berlin-Buch
Robert-Rössle-Straße 10
13125 Berlin

www.mdc-berlin.de