DZNE is a world-leading, internationally oriented center for cutting-edge research into diseases of the nervous system.

At 10 locations in Germany, around 1,200 employees are working together on new approaches to better understand and effectively combat diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS.

That is our goal – maybe soon yours too? Become part of the DZNE and support us in realizing our research strategy!

PhD Student (f/m/x) in Molecular Epidemiology
Code: 1514/2026/1

The research group “Molecular Epidemiology of Aging”, led by Dr. Dan Liu, is seeking a highly motivated PhD Candidate in Molecular Epidemiology to be based at the headquarters of the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) in Bonn, Germany. We are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious early-career researcher with a strong interest in investigating multi-omic and multimodal brain imaging signatures of glymphatic function in the context of aging and cerebral small vessel disease (sCVD).

About the research group and project

The Molecular Epidemiology of Aging research group aims to unravel the molecular drivers of human aging and to understand how lifestyle and environmental factors shape these processes across the adult lifespan. The advertised PhD position is embedded in the ANR-DFG funded international collaborative project “Multi-SVD-glyph”, conducted in partnership with the DZNE, the Paris Brain Institute, and the University of Bordeaux. Within this framework, this PhD project will specifically aim to identify (epi)genetic and proteomic determinants of glymphatic system function and white matter pathology, contributing to a deeper understanding of sCVD and brain aging. The work will be carried out in close collaboration with national and international partners.

The project will leverage large-scale population-based cohorts, in particular the Rhineland Study, which is spearheaded by Prof. Dr. Dr. Monique M. B. Breteler. The Rhineland Study includes comprehensive multi-omics data, including (epi)genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, and proteomics, advanced MRI data, as well as extensive behavioral and clinical data, including cognitive and neurological assessments, cardiovascular and anthropometric assessments, sensory systems tests, medical history, and medication use. The study currently includes over 12,500 individuals, nearly 5,000 of whom already have longitudinal data. Additional baseline and follow-up data collection is ongoing.

Your role in detail

As a PhD candidate, you will

• Conduct research in molecular epidemiology of aging in humans, with a focus on epigenetics and proteomics
• Perform integrative analyses combining multi-omics data with brain imaging measures
• Contribute to omics data processing, statistical analyses, and the preparation of manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals
• Present research findings at national and international conferences and within the project consortium
• Actively participate in project-related meetings, documentation, and reporting of project progress
• Contribute to ongoing projects within the group and develop independent research ideas

You will have the opportunity to work closely with international collaborators, enhancing your academic training, scientific visibility, and professional network.

Your qualifications

Required

• A master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field, such as epidemiology, bioinformatics, medicine, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline
• A genuine interest in scientific research and quantitative analysis
• Experience with epidemiological research or large-scale observational studies, particularly involving omics or brain imaging data
• Strong proficiency in written and spoken English

Desirable

• Statistical knowledge and experience with R programming
• Strong analytical skills, independent and critical thinking, and attention to detail
• Dedication, strong interpersonal skills, and enjoyment of working in an interdisciplinary and international team

We seek a highly motivated and curious researcher who is eager to grow scientifically and professionally. Your independent, goal-oriented work style, combined with strong teamwork and communication skills, will make you an excellent fit for our group and the broader collaborative project.

What our employees value

• Innovation and internationality – a forward-looking infrastructure, modern laboratory and office equipment, software tools, and the opportunity for international exchange with your colleagues from 65 nations
• Personalized onboarding – for a good start to your new professional challenge
• Kita cooperation – employees have the opportunity to apply for a place at a daycare through our daycare cooperation program
• Work-life balance – we reconcile work and private life with flexible working hours, 30 days' holiday (on top free on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve), and subsidized job / Germany ticket options
• Health promotion – through our extensive range of company health programmes, in cooperation with Sozialwerk.Bund
• Focus on development – training programs tailored to your individual needs and annual HR development meetings for concrete prospects and potential development
• Family-conscious corporate culture – because we know that family is important, we support you with our family service
• A feel-good working environment – our Bonn employees enjoy a campus surrounded by greenery, with on-site parking and public transport connections as well as our company restaurant

Application process

You will obtain special skills and knowledge for your scientific qualification during your activities at DZNE. The DZNE is an equal opportunity employer. It is committed to employing disabled individuals and especially encourages them to apply.

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, a CV, and transcripts in one single PDF file. The cover letter should describe your motivation to apply for this position and detail how your research interests and experience align with the research conducted in our group. Please highlight any relevant projects, publications, or collaborations. Note: We highly value authenticity in applications and discourage the use of AI-generated cover letters.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Ideally, we are looking for a start date of April 1st, 2026.

For inquiries about the position, please contact Dr. Dan Liu  ([email protected]).

Application deadline: March 15th, 2026