Doctoral Researcher in Biology (m/f/d)

About the Institution

The University Hospital Düsseldorf (UKD) is the largest hospital in the state capital and one of the key medical centers in North Rhine-Westphalia. With approximately 9,300 employees in UKD and affiliated companies, it annually provides inpatient care to over 45,000 patients and outpatient treatment to around 270,000 individuals. The UKD is recognized for international excellence in patient care, research, and teaching, offering innovative and secure diagnostics, therapy, and prevention. The hospital emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration among 60 clinics and institutes, integrating clinical practice and research to apply new methods safely. This is where the medicine of tomorrow is developed every day.

The Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf is a leading center for medical research. Its projects in basic and clinical research receive funding from organizations such as the German Research Foundation, state and federal ministries, and the European Union.

Position and Team

The Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology & Angiology is seeking a Scientific Staff Member or natural sciences doctoral candidate to join the research team led by Prof. Dr. med. Amin Polzin in the Heart Failure section starting October 1, 2026. The group consists of an international team from various medical and scientific disciplines. The successful candidate will engage in basic scientific research, including investigating genetic risk factors of myocardial infarction.

Key Responsibilities

• Performing experimental animal model studies
• Conducting molecular biological tissue analyses
• Analyzing data using bioinformatics methods
• Contributing actively beyond own research project
• Pursuing independent scientific qualification towards a doctoral degree

Required Qualifications

• Completed university degree in natural sciences, veterinary medicine, or related fields
• Knowledge of laboratory animal science involving mice or rats, with EU Activity A certification (formerly FELASA B) mandatory
• Strong curiosity and commitment to rigorous, methodical basic research
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in German and English

Desired Attributes

• Enthusiasm for taking on new challenges
• Ability to independently solve complex questions and problems
• Polite and context-appropriate communication skills

What We Offer

• Opportunity to independently shape your academic medical tasks in a dynamic environment
• Room for personal development, creativity, and responsibility
• Access to participation in scientific conferences
• Comprehensive continuing education and training opportunities

Additional Information

The employment contract will be issued by Heinrich Heine University. The university aims to increase the proportion of female staff and gives preference to female applicants with equivalent qualifications. It embraces diversity, having signed the "Charta der Vielfalt" and successfully participated in the "Diversity Management" audit by the Stifterverband. The university is certified as family-friendly and promotes diversity among staff. Applications from severely disabled persons or those with equivalent status (under SGB IX) are explicitly encouraged. The position is compatible with part-time employment arrangements.