Research Associate (Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in) - Molecular Child Psychiatry
The Faculty VI - Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Human Medicine, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy at the Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg seeks applications for a
Research Associate (Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in) - Molecular Child Psychiatry (Salary according to TV-L 13, 50%, 3 years)
starting as soon as possible / as of 1 October 2026.
About us
Faculty VI - Medicine and Health Sciences comprises the fields of Human Medicine, Medical Physics and Acoustics, Neuroscience, Psychology, and Health Services Research. Together with four regional hospitals, Faculty VI forms the University Medicine Oldenburg. In addition, there is close collaboration 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 shape brain development and contribute to psychiatric symptoms across childhood and adolescence. Our research combines molecular biology, cellular models, clinical cohorts, and neuropsychological assessments to identify biological mechanisms underlying mental health, vulnerability, and resilience.
Our laboratory employs targeted DNA methylation analyses, whole-genome DNA methylation profiling, gene expression analyses (RT-qPCR), protein quantification (Western blot and ELISA), and the integration of molecular findings with psychometric and neuropsychological data. In addition, we are establishing human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived brain organoid models to study neurodevelopmental mechanisms related to early adversity, prenatal substance exposure, and psychiatric symptoms.
Your responsibilities
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 data and other molecular datasets.
Integrate molecular findings with clinical, psychometric, and neuropsychological data.
Analyze, interpret, and present experimental results.
Prepare manuscripts for publication in international peer-reviewed journals.
Present research findings at scientific meetings.
Contribute to the preparation of grant applications.
Supervise Bachelor's and Master's students and support junior researchers within the laboratory.
Collaborate closely with clinical and interdisciplinary research partners.
Depending on qualification level, contribute to teaching in child and adolescent psychiatry and related disciplines.
Your profile
Required Qualifications
Master's degree or equivalent in biology, molecular biology, neuroscience, biochemistry, molecular medicine, psychology with a molecular or 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 such as DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, RT-qPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, methylation analyses, or related methods.
Experience with statistical analysis using R, Python, or SPSS.
Excellent written and spoken English.
High motivation, reliability, organizational skills, and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team.
Desirable/preferred qualifications
Experience with whole-genome DNA methylation data, genome-wide molecular analyses, next-generation sequencing, or bioinformatics.
Experience with stem cell culture, induced pluripotent stem cells (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 are advantageous but not required.
We offer
A stimulating and interdisciplinary research environment embedded within a university hospital.
Access to a modern and well-equipped molecular research laboratory.
The opportunity to contribute to innovative research at the interface of molecular biology, neuroscience, and child psychiatry.
Close collaboration with clinicians, psychologists, neuroscientists, and international research partners.
There is the possibility of a personal scientific qualification postdoctoral thesis
Opportunities to present your work at national and international conferences.
A welcoming, collaborative, and international working atmosphere.
Our standards
The University of Oldenburg aims to increase the proportion of women in the academic field. Therefore, women are strongly encouraged to apply. According to § 21 para. 3 NHG, female applicants should be given preferential consideration if their qualifications are equivalent.
Applicants with disabilities are given preference in the event of equal suitability.
Contact
For further information, please contact Dr. Mira Vasileva (mira.vasileva@uni-oldenburg.de).
Apply now/How to apply
Please send your complete application documents (statement of motivation, CV, certificates) preferably by email as one PDF document by 15th August 2026 to University of Oldenburg, contact person: Prof. Dr. Yulia Golub (bewerbung-kjpp@uni-oldenburg.de).
You are not yet familiar with Oldenburg? Feel free to get your first impressions of the city here: https://www.moin-in-oldenburg.de