PhD POSITION IN PTEN-DEPENDENT CRANIOFACIAL AND SKELETAL BIOLOGY

The research group “Cranio- and Orofacial Development” https://research.uni-leipzig.de/petersen_lab/ at Leipzig University Medical Center (UKL) offers a fully funded PhD position within a DFG-funded collaborative project investigating PTEN-dependent craniofacial tissue homeostasis. The project is particularly suited to candidates interested in craniofacial and skeletal biology, molecular signaling, spatial omics, and metabolism.

Project Background:

PTEN is a central regulator of PI3K-AKT signaling and coordinates cell growth, metabolism, and tissue homeostasis. The project investigates how loss of PTEN in the osteoblast lineage alters the postnatal craniofacial complex. The PhD project will focus on teeth and their supporting periodontal tissues, alveolar and craniofacial bone, and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Using an inducible postnatal genetic mouse model, we aim to determine how PTEN-dependent signaling changes tissue architecture, bone remodeling, cellular states, and molecular programs. A complementary part of the project will investigate the associated adipose/metabolic phenotype in close collaboration with Dr. Antje Garten and her group from the Molecular Endocrinology at the Center for Pediatric Research (https://research.uni-leipzig.de/garten_lab/).

The PhD candidate will investigate:

• PTEN-dependent changes in teeth and periodontal tissues, craniofacial and alveolar bone, and the TMJ
• Cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying altered bone remodeling and craniofacial tissue homeostasis after postnatal PTEN deletion

• Spatially resolved tissue responses and their relationship to PTEN-associated adipose/metabolic changes

   

Methods and Approaches:

The project combines state-of-the-art experimental and computational techniques, including:

• Inducible transgenic mouse models and genetic reporter systems
• Histology, immunofluorescence, advanced microscopy, and micro-computed tomography
• Spatial transcriptomics of dental, periodontal, bone, and TMJ tissues
• Molecular biology, quantitative image analysis, proteomic integration, and bioinformatic analyses

Candidate Profile:

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with:

• Master of Science degree or a Diploma in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, 

  Biotechnology, Bioinformatics or Chemistry

• Interest in craniofacial biology, mechanobiology, or regenerative medicine
• Experience in molecular biology, cell biology, animal models, and/or bioinformatics
• Strong motivation to work in an international and interdisciplinary research environment
• Good communication skills and proficiency in English

We Offer:

• A fully funded PhD position (3 years)
• Participation in an international research collaboration
• Access to cutting-edge technologies, including spatial transcriptomics and advanced imaging
• A dynamic and collaborative research environment
• Opportunities for international exchange and conference participation

Research Environment:

The project is embedded in the Department of Orthodontics at Leipzig University Medical Center. Our research focuses on craniofacial biology, tooth and periodontal tissue homeostasis, skeletal remodeling, genetic mouse models, advanced imaging, and spatial omics. The collaboration with Dr. Antje Garten provides complementary expertise in PTEN biology, metabolism, and adipose tissue, enabling the PhD candidate to connect local craniofacial phenotypes with systemic metabolic alterations.

Where to apply:

Please send a single PDF containing a cover letter describing your previous research experience and motivation to join our lab; curriculum vitae; copies of relevant qualifications (degree, diploma and, if applicable, animal-course certificates); and the contact details of two referees to: julian.petersen@medizin.uni-leipzig.de

Application deadline: 31.10.2026