Call for Applications

Join us in shaping the future of musculoskeletal interface research

Our work bridges engineering, medicine, imaging, physics, biology, data science, computational modelling and machine learning to create new insights and technologies for musculoskeletal health. The RTG fosters a vibrant, collaborative, and international research environment – right in the heart of Hamburg’s rapidly growing life-science ecosystem.

The DFG Research Training Group “Multiscale Imaging and Analytics of Interfaces in Musculoskeletal Health” invites applications for fully funded doctoral positions starting in summer 2028.
We are looking for highly motivated candidates from biomedical engineering, medicine, physics, materials science, biology, data science, imaging, computer science, or related disciplines.

Your profile

We seek highly motivated and excellent candidates who:

• Hold an outstanding Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a discipline related to the specific project (e.g. biomedical engineering, physics, life sciences, data science, biomechanics, or related fields)
• Demonstrate a strong academic track record and a clear commitment to pursuing research at the highest international level
• Show proven interest and prior experience in at least one of the following areas: advanced imaging (X-ray, electron, light microscopy), experimental biomechanics, musculoskeletal biology, computational modeling, data science, or machine learning
• Show the capacity for independent, creative, and critical scientific thinking and are eager to take responsibility for a demanding doctoral research project
• Thrive in interdisciplinary research environments and value close collaboration across experimental, computational, and clinical domains
• Bring scientific curiosity, independence, initiative, and excellent communication skills
• Are committed to research integrity, open science, and fostering an inclusive and respectful research culture

We offer

• Fully funded 4-year doctoral positions within a structured and internationally visible DFG Research Training Group
• Intensive supervision by an interdisciplinary Supervisor Committee (SC) combining complementary expertise
• Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure, including TEM, SBF-SEM, FIB-SEM, synchrotron beamlines, biomechanics laboratories, high-performance computing clusters, and advanced model systems
• A high-level qualification program tailored to ambitious doctoral researchers, featuring:
  • Advanced imaging and data analytics modules
  • A dedicated RTG lecture series by international experts
  • Annual Winter Schools on Musculoskeletal Health and Interface Research
  • Training in transferable skills, teaching, leadership, and career development
  • Structured curricula in research data management and open science
  • Strong support for scientific visibility, including conference participation, winter schools, and international research stays
  • A stimulating, collaborative, and diversity-oriented research environment with family-friendly working conditions
  • Targeted training in science communication and outreach, preparing you for careers in academia, industry, or beyond

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI)

We explicitly encourage women, first-generation academics, international applicants, and candidates from underrepresented groups to apply.
Applicants with equal qualifications will be given preference according to DFG and institutional regulations for equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI).
Applicants with families are strongly supported through UKE/TUHH family offices and flexible working arrangements.