PostDoc (f/m/d)

The research group of Prof. Dr. Ricarda Richter-Dennerlein at the Department of Molecular Biology is inviting applications for a

Postdoctoral Fellow (f/m/d)

focusing on mitochondrial ribosome biogenesis and function

About us

Our research group is based in the Department of Molecular Biology at the University Medical Center Göttingen. Our goal is to understand the mechanisms underlying the biogenesis and function of the human mitochondrial ribosome, which synthesizes the core subunits of the oxidative phosphorylation system. Defects in the mitochondrial ribosome are associated with severe early-onset diseases, in which patients often suffer from neurological disorders or cardiomyopathy. We aim to understand (i) how the assembly and function of the human mitochondrial ribosome are regulated, (ii) what roles are played by associated factors, and (iii) what key quality control steps maintain a pool of functional ribosomes.

To address this, we combine biochemical and cell biological approaches, including iPS cell culture with differentiation into different cell types, as well as mass spectrometry and structural biology, which are conducted in collaboration with other research groups on the Göttingen research campus. Göttingen is an international student city located in the center of Germany. In addition to the University and University Medical Center, it hosts several renowned institutions such as the Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, providing a highly stimulating and collaborative environment.

For recent examples of our research, see:
Richter-Dennerlein et al. (2026) Nat. Rev. Mol. Cell Biol., PMID: 41688758
Heinrichs et al. (2025) Nat. Communications, PMID: 40240327
Lavdovskaia et al. (2024) Nat. Struct. Mol. Biol., PMID: 38992089
Nadler et al. (2022) Nat. Communications, PMID: 36302763
Hillen et al. (2021) Nat. Communications, PMID: 34135319

For further information on the position or our research, please contact Ricarda Richter-Dennerlein (ricarda.richter@med.uni-goettingen.de) directly for informal inquiries.

Please send a single PDF file of your application including a short statement of motivation and previous experience, your CV, copies of degree certificates, and the names and contact details of at least two references. Only applicants selected for interview will be contacted after the application deadline.

Your tasks

• Work in a stimulating, international, and collaborative environment
• Develop and drive your own research project and participate in collaborative projects
• Apply a broad spectrum of advanced methods in biochemistry and molecular and cellular biology, including iPS cell culture and cell differentiation
• Analyze large data sets (e.g. sequencing and mass spectrometry data)
• Make use of local core facilities and interact with collaborators on campus
• Present your research results at national and international scientific conferences

Your qualifications

• Motivated and enthusiastic scientist who can work independently as well as in a team
• BSc/MSc degree and PhD in life sciences such as molecular and cell biology, biochemistry or a related discipline
• Background and interest in mitochondrial biology and/or gene expression
• Experience in working with stem cells
• Experience in the analysis of large data sets (transcriptome/proteome) is advantageous
• Fluent English language skills (written and spoken) are required

We offer

• A project in a high-impact research field embedded in the collaborative environment of the Göttingen Campus, including several supportive facilities and inspiring research consortia
• Fixed-term full-time position for 2 years, with the possibility of further extension
• Salary according to the German Public Sector Collective Agreement (TV-L 13)
• Starting date: as soon as possible
• The UMG is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from suitably qualified candidates.
• We further strive for gender and diversity equality and welcome applications from all backgrounds.