Entrance of the German Institute of Human Nutrition building with people walking and colorful flower bedsPeople walking around the vibrant entrance of the German Institute of Human Nutrition in Potsdam-Rehbrücke

The German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbrücke is currently inviting applications for a Master Student (m/f/d) position starting June 1, 2026. This opportunity is based in Nuthetal, Germany, and offers hands-on experience in cutting-edge bioinformatics and epigenetics research within a globally respected scientific environment.

As part of the Leibniz Association, DIfE is internationally recognized for its contributions to nutrition and health sciences, particularly in understanding and preventing chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Location: Nuthetal, Germany — a research-friendly environment near Potsdam and Berlin, offering access to a vibrant academic and scientific community.


About the Research Institute

DIfE focuses on experimental and clinical research aimed at uncovering the molecular mechanisms behind nutrition-related diseases. The institute plays a key role in advancing preventive strategies and therapeutic approaches, particularly in metabolic disorders.

The position is hosted within the Junior Research Group “Epigenetics of Obesity and Diabetes,” led by Dr. Meriem Ouni. This group collaborates closely with the German Center for Diabetes Research, offering a dynamic interdisciplinary research environment.


Research Project Overview

The selected candidate will contribute to a high-impact research project:

Epigenetic Score for Early Type 2 Diabetes Endotypes

This project aims to improve early detection and classification of type 2 diabetes using advanced computational approaches.

Key Responsibilities

  • Analyze large-scale blood DNA methylation datasets
  • Integrate epigenetic and clinical data for correlation studies
  • Develop predictive models using machine learning and deep learning
  • Apply advanced clustering techniques such as PAM and WGCNA for patient stratification

This role provides direct exposure to multi-omics integration, including epigenomics, transcriptomics, and clinical datasets.


Skills and Qualifications

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

  • Bachelor’s degree in bioinformatics, mathematics, statistics, or a related life science field with strong analytical training
  • Foundational knowledge of data analysis and computational biology
  • Familiarity with Unix-based systems is advantageous
  • Interest in genetics, epigenetics, or metabolic diseases

Experience with programming languages such as R (Bioconductor) or Python will be considered a strong asset.


What You Will Gain

This position offers a valuable blend of academic rigor and practical research experience:

  • Access to state-of-the-art computational and laboratory infrastructure
  • Hands-on experience with real-world biomedical datasets
  • Training in modern bioinformatics pipelines and analytical tools
  • Collaboration with international scientists and clinicians
  • Exposure to high-impact research in metabolic disease prevention

Application Process

  • Start Date: June 1, 2026
  • Application Deadline: May 13, 2026
  • Applicants should submit their materials via email to: studenten@dife.de

For academic inquiries, contact:
Dr. Meriem Ouni
Email: Meriem.Ouni@dife.de

Applications are processed in compliance with GDPR regulations, ensuring data protection and privacy throughout the recruitment process.


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