wanted from 01.09.2026 at the metabolic unit of the Children´s Hospital.

The research group of Prof. Verena Peters and Prof. Claus Schmitt is seeking talented and motivated researchers to work as a PhD student on a DFG-funded grant (Therapeutic potential of dipeptides in diabetic vasculopathy and nephropathy (PoDiVaN)). We have recently shown that nephroprotective effects and improved survival in diabetes and experimental models of sepsis have been demonstrated for anserine and carnosine, underscoring dipeptides as a promising and largely underexplored class of biologically active effectors with potential theurapeutic potential. Dipeptides exhibit organ-specific distribution patterns across tissues. Dipeptide-based therapies are particularly attractive due to their favorable cost profile and anticipated tolerability; however, the development of innovative interventional clinical studies requires a detailed and comprehensive understanding of their underlying biological mechanisms. The planned project will use a broad range of technologies, including genetics, imaging, biochemistry, molecular biology, enzymology, cell culture and experimental animal models (mice and zebrafish). Quantitative analytical methods will include UPLC-MS/MS as well as mass spectrometry-based analysis of dipeptide-protein interactions, supported by rigorous statistical evaluation. The candidate will be working in a diverse interdisciplinary team and the ability to work independently, troubleshooting and multitasking skills, and capability of intellectual input for project development are preferred. Applicants should submit a CV, motivation letter, and contact details of the referees.

• Job-ID: V000015816
• Field of application: Klinik Kinderheilkunde I (Allg. Pädiatrie, Neuropäd., Stoffwechsel, Gastroenterologie, Nephrologie)
• Location: Heidelberg
• Job Category: Science and teaching
• Working hours: Part time (65 %)
• Published: 25.06.2026
• Limitation:Temporary (3 years)
• Contract:TV-L

Your Tasks

• Systematic analysis of dipeptides (DPs) on disease mechanisms and protective pathways
• Identification of protective or harmful human DP patterns by quantifying the dipeptidome in well-characterized (diabetic) patients
• Expanding the analytical platform (UPLC-MS/MS) in cooperation with the Center for Organismal Studies (COS)
• Validation of therapeutic effects of selected DPs in zebrafish models
• Demonstrating oral bioavailability and protective effects of candidate DPs in mice, focusing on diabetic nephropathy and vasculopathy

Your Profile

• A Master’s degree in biology, life sciences, or a related field
• High interest in human biochemistry / metabolism
• Strong laboratory and analytical skills
• Clear and effective communication skills
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams
• Excellent written and spoken English

What we offer

• Goal-oriented, individual training and development opportunities (e.g. data analysis)
• Working with the latest techniques / technical equipment UPLC-MS/MS
• Possibility of doctorate
• Opportunities to publish scientific work are offered and supported 
• Regular team meetings
• Interdisciplinary cooperation 
• Possibility to take over project responsibility for this project 
• Collectively agreed remuneration TV-L E13, attractive company pension scheme (VBL)
• 30 days vacation
• Sustainable travel: job ticket
• Family-friendly working environment: cooperative arrangements for childcare, subsidy for child vacation care, advice for employees with relatives in need of care
• Wide range of health, prevention and sports offers

Contact & Application

For further information please contact Verena Peters via e-mail.

Interested?

Applications will be accepted until 31.08.2026 directly online.

Klinik Kinderheilkunde I (Allg. Pädiatrie, Neuropäd., Stoffwechsel, Gastroenterologie, Nephrologie) Prof. Verena Peters Im Neuenheimer Feld 669 69120 Heidelberg 06221 56-31715Verena.peters@med.uni-heidelberg.de

Note: The UKHD is subject to the provisions of the Infektionsschutzgesetz. Therefore, a valid measles immunity certificate is required for all persons employed at the UKHD.

The UKHD embraces diversity and values diversity.

Regardless of age, gender, sexual identity, disability, origin or religion, we offer everyone the same opportunities. If one gender is underrepresented in a particular area, we place particular emphasis on counteracting this imbalance. If they have the same aptitude, qualifications and professional performance, we give priority to people with severe disabilities when considering them for vacancies.