Research Associate (Wissenschaftliche r Mitarbeiter in) - Molecular Child Psychiatry

Faculty VI - Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg Salary according to TV-L 13 (50%), limited to 3 years Start: as soon as possible / as of 1 October 2026

Faculty VI - Medicine and Health Sciences covers Human Medicine, Medical Physics and Acoustics, Neuroscience, Psychology, and Health Services Research. Together with four regional hospitals, it forms the University Medicine Oldenburg and collaborates closely with the University Medical Center of the University of Groningen.

The Research Laboratory Molecular Child Psychiatry investigates how early-life adversity and prenatal substance exposure influence brain development and contribute to psychiatric symptoms in childhood and adolescence. Our work integrates molecular biology, cellular models, clinical cohorts, and neuropsychological assessments to uncover biological mechanisms of mental health, vulnerability, and resilience.

Key methods include:

• Targeted and whole-genome DNA methylation analyses
• Gene expression analyses (RT-qPCR)
• Protein quantification (Western blot, ELISA)
• Integration of molecular data with psychometric and neuropsychological findings
• Development of human iPSC-derived brain organoid models to study neurodevelopmental mechanisms

• Conduct molecular and cellular biology experiments within ongoing research projects
• Independently plan, perform, document, and evaluate laboratory experiments
• Contribute to the development and implementation of organoid-based experimental models
• Perform statistical and bioinformatic analyses of whole-genome DNA methylation and other molecular datasets
• Integrate molecular findings with clinical, psychometric, and neuropsychological data
• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental results
• Prepare manuscripts for international peer-reviewed journals
• Present research findings at scientific meetings
• Contribute to grant applications
• Supervise Bachelor's and Master's students and support junior researchers
• Collaborate with clinical and interdisciplinary research partners
• Depending on qualification, contribute to teaching in child and adolescent psychiatry and related disciplines

• Master's degree (or equivalent) in biology, molecular biology, neuroscience, biochemistry, molecular medicine, psychology (with molecular/neuroscience focus), or a related discipline
• Completed PhD in molecular psychiatry, neuroscience, molecular biology, genetics, epigenetics, developmental biology, or a related field
• Practical experience with molecular biology techniques:
  • DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, RT-qPCR
  • Western blotting, ELISA
  • Methylation analyses or related methods
• Experience with statistical analysis (R, Python, or SPSS)
• Excellent written and spoken English
• High motivation, reliability, organizational skills, and ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team

• Experience with whole-genome DNA methylation data, genome-wide analyses, next-generation sequencing, or bioinformatics
• Experience with stem cell culture, iPSCs, or brain organoid models
• Experience working with clinical cohorts and/or biobanks
• Scientific publication record (particularly for postdoctoral applicants)
• Experience contributing to grant applications
• German language skills (advantageous but not required)

• A stimulating, interdisciplinary research environment within a university hospital
• Access to a modern, well-equipped molecular research laboratory
• Opportunity to contribute to innovative research at the interface of molecular biology, neuroscience, and child psychiatry
• Close collaboration with clinicians, psychologists, neuroscientists, and international partners
• Possibility of postdoctoral scientific qualification (e.g., Habilitation)
• Opportunities to present work at national and international conferences
• A welcoming, collaborative, and international working atmosphere

The University of Oldenburg aims to increase the proportion of women in academia; female applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. According to 21 para. 3 NHG, preferential consideration will be given to female applicants with equivalent qualifications. Applicants with disabilities receive preference in case of equal suitability.

For inquiries: Dr. Mira Vasileva

Applications: Submit your complete documents (motivation letter, CV, certificates) preferably as a single PDF by 15 August 2026 to: University of Oldenburg Attn: Prof. Dr. Yulia Golub

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