University Freiburg Medical Center is a leading institution in biomedical research in the heart of Europe with close associations to other institutions and centers in the tri-national Eucor area (Germany, Switzerland and France). The Walentek laboratory (Department of Medicine) is located at the Institute for Disease Modeling and Targeted Medicine (IMITATE) and is recruiting to fill multiple positions for a 5 year ERC-funded project (MAGIX: cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101170596) at the postdoctoral level, however, candidates for PhD positions are also encouraged to apply when they have relevant experience in the areas listed below. We investigate how genomic, gene-regulatory and self-organizing molecular mechanisms orchestrate tissue formation, function and modification in development and disease. We are using an integrative and multi-level approach, and the laboratory provides state-of-the-art research facilities for advanced light- and electron microscopy, multi-omics approaches and experimentation. This allows us to study airway-like mucociliary epithelia in frogs and mice, and how their functions are modified across organs and evolution to regulate microbiomes in health and disease. We are looking for highly motivated candidates who like to work in an open and interdisciplinary environment to address biomedical questions with novel approaches in the project areas listed below. We encourage applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender identity, disability, nationality or any other demographic or personal factor. Developmental and cell biology: Analysis of Xenopus and mouse foregut development, cell types and cilia function as well as testing the effects of signaling pathways and transcription factors on tissue development and cell type composition. Required skills and experience: The ideal candidate holds a PhD in the areas of developmental or cell biology, has experience in working with vertebrate models (particularly mice), and has technical skills in imaging, genetic modifications (genetic lines, CRISPR) and phenotype analyses. Additional knowledge in computer-aided analyses (e.g. image quantification) is beneficial. Potential applicants for a PhD position need to demonstrate relevant experience in mouse genetics and embryology or microbiome studies. Bioinformatics and single-cell omics: Collection, analysis and integration of temporally resolved bulk- and single cell-RNA-seq/ATAC-seq datasets, assessment of transcription factor binding and Histone modifications by ChIP-seq and Cut&Run. Required skills and experience: The ideal candidate holds a PhD in the areas of genetics and genomics or bioinformatics, has experience (wet lab) in single cell technologies as well as data analysis and multi-omics data integration. Experience in addressing questions in developmental biology as well as working with temporal-resolved datasets or spatial-omics technologies is beneficial. Potential applicants for a PhD position need to demonstrate relevant experience in bioinformatics and omics data analysis, but are specifically encouraged to apply. Mathematical modeling: Implement new data and regulatory modules into an existing mathematical framework to generate an in silico model of cell fate patterning mechanisms and their modifications across organs. Required skills and experience: The ideal candidate holds a MSc or PhD in mathematics, statistics or biomedical sciences, has experience with modeling of biological processes using ODE models based on experimental data, and is interested in working at the intersection of systems biology and theoretical modeling. Both PhD and postdoctoral candidates are encouraged to apply. We offer: An excellent scientific environment and state-of-the-art facilities, including opportunities for scientific exchange and international exposure (e.g. through our participation in the center of excellence CIBSS as well as national research consortia SFB NephGen, FOR Cilia Dynamics or HetCCI). Remuneration is based on the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Länder (TV-L 13+) including all allowances customary in the public sector, e.g. end of the year bonus, 30 days annual vacation, healthcare and pension plans, job ticket for public transport, etc. Strong commitment to career development and opportunities for additional internal and external mentoring, training and career advancement programs, including graduate schools (SGBM – University Freiburg, MOTIVATE – Medical Center Freiburg, IMPRS – Max Planck Institute Freiburg). A collaborative dynamic team and a beautiful city near the Black Forest with plenty of cultural sites and outdoor activities close by. Link to Walentek lab website: https://www.uniklinik-freiburg.de/walentek-en.html Application process: Please send A motivation letter (max. 2 pages) highlighting your background, relevant skills and your motivation to apply for the position. Academic CV, bibliography and contacts to 3 references familiar with your scientific work (including previous MSc and PhD advisors). A short description (max. ½ page) of your most important scientific contribution (e.g. publication). Please send your application materials in from of a single PDF to peter.walentek [at] uniklink-freiburg.de until 31. August 2025or earlier. Earliest possible start date: 01. August 2025. The application file name should contain your last name and indicate the area 1.) “bio”, 2.) “omics”, 3.) “math”. In case of questions, please contact us. We are looking forward to your application! -- Universitätsklinikum Freiburg Innere Medizin IV & IMITATE - Institute for Disease Modeling and Targeted Medicine Dr. Peter Walentek (He/Him) Heisenberg Group Leader Breisacher Str. 113 - 79106 Freiburg, Germany Phone-Office: +49 761 270-63089 peter.walentek@medizin.uni-freiburg.de www.uniklinik-freiburg.de/walentek-en.html