The overall goal of the research activities at the Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics (www.biomechanics.de) is to better understand the pathomechanisms of musculoskeletal disorders and to develop novel therapeutic strategies. The Institute is embedded in the Trauma Research Centre Ulm (ZTF) and member of the Collaborative Research Centre 1149 (CRC1149) "Danger response, disturbance factors and regeneration after acute trauma". We rely on a broad spectrum of innovative methods, an interdisciplinary research approach, and extensive local, national and international cooperation to perform high quality research. The excellent scientific environment within the institute guarantees ideal working conditions.

Within the above mentioned CRC1149 we offer three PhD projects, all of them dealing with compromised bone regeneration after fracture. Impaired bone fracture healing in severely injured and in aged or diseased patients is a major clinical problem. However, the underlying molecular and cellular mechanism are so far poorly understood. The projects will focus on the influence of psychosocial stress, and the role of glucocorticoids and mitochondrial dysfunction. The broad spectrum of methods comprises innovative surgical mouse models, cell culture work as well as molecular biology, histology and imaging techniques. The PhD students should join the International Graduate School of Molecular Medicine Ulm (IGradU).

We are seeking excellent candidates (M.Sc. in biology, molecular medicine, biochemistry etc.) with a strong motivation to address biological and medical questions with interdisciplinary approaches. Experience in immunology and molecular biology are advantageous. 

The opportunity to work in a dynamic and highly motivated team. Salary and benefits are given according to the German TV-L system. We offer a workplace health promotion, numerous training and continuing education opportunities and also support concerning the compatibility of job and family.