PhD Student (gn*) Genetics

Fixed term of 3 years | Part-time with 65 % | Salary according to TV-L E13 | Centre of Medical Genetics, Institute of Reproductive Genetics

We are UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility – ideally with you on board!

The position is located in the research group of Prof. Frank Tüttelmann working on translational reproductive genetics and is embedded in the DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre 1748 ‘Principles of Reproduction’. The CRC 1748 involves scientists of the University, University Hospital, and Max Planck Institute Münster as well as of the RWTH Aachen. Our central objective is to elucidate the genetic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms governing the formation and function of the testis, production and function of sperm, fertilisation, as well as early embryonic development – in both health and disease. To this end, we combine interdisciplinary research in molecular, structural, and cell biology as well as in physiology, biophysics, epi /genetics, (bio)informatics, and multimodal data analysis.

Over the past decade, our institute has pioneered exome and genome sequencing in order to map the genomic landscape of male infertility, particularly focusing on non-obstructive azoospermia. Still, most affected men remain without a causal diagnosis, precluding personalised treatment. Thus, the aim of this project is to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of two novel male infertility candidate genes.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Planning, execution and analysis of experimental work
• Elucidating of the function of two novel candidate genes and their role in health and disease
• Collaborating with scientists from the CRC 1748 and beyond
• Publication activities and presentation of results
• Participating in the Integrated Research Training Group ‘Reproduction.MS PhD-Training Centre in Translational Science’

REQUIREMENTS: 

• Master’s degree in life sciences (e.g. Biology, Molecular Biology, Biomedicine, (Bio-) Chemistry or similar)
• Strong interest in human genetics, bioinformatics, research and development in a translational setting
• Previous experience in molecular biology techniques (such as PCR, sequencing, cell culture, immunohistochemistry,  pull-down assays, mass-spectrometry)
• High motivation for scientific work and willingness to contribute to an interdisciplinary team
• Excellent English communication skills (spoken and written); German skills are advantageous

WE OFFER:

• Salary according to tariff agreement, extra annual payment, and company pension plan (VBL)
• 30 days of vacation per year, plus two additional days off on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve
• Structured PhD-training programme with a wide range of training and professional development opportunities
• A respectful and appreciative work environment within a diverse team
• Support and advisory services for health and work-life balance
• Additional benefits such as sports programs, job ticket, company events, cafeteria, and emergency childcare

For inquiries, please contact: Prof. Frank Tüttelmann, frank.tuettelmann@ukmuenster.de, T +49 251 83-55411

Apply now via our career portal until February 11, 2026.

Please include:

• Letter of motivation (max 2 pages)
• Summary of your Master‘s thesis (max 1 page)
• Transcript and scanned copies of your degree certificates
• Names and contact details of two references