1 Masterstudent*in (m/w/d)

Deutsches Institut für Ernährungsforschung Potsdam-Rehbrücke (DIfE)

About us

The German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke (DIfE) is a member of the Leibniz Association. The institute’s mission is to conduct experimental and clinical research in the field of nutrition and health, with the aim of understanding the molecular basis of nutrition-dependent diseases, and of developing new strategies for treatment and prevention.

The Department of Molecular Physiology of Exercise and Nutrition (MPEN) invites applications for 1 Master Student (m/f/d) starting as soon as possible.

Topic of the Master Thesis: 

“Mechanisms of action for Medium-Chain Fatty Acids: The role of Ketone Bodies”

The Hidden Power of Medium-Chain Fatty Acid (MCFA):

Energy metabolism is regulated by nutrient availability, tissue-specific metabolism, and hormonal signals. Medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) are unique dietary fats that are rapidly absorbed and efficiently stimulate ketone body production, providing energy substrate for the body. But what if liver cannot make ketone bodies? Where do MCFAs go and how do the tissues cope? We are seeking motivated master students to investigate how MCFAs influence energy homeostasis and metabolic flexibility. 

Your tasks

• Conduct a focused literature search and review to understand the current knowledge of MCFA metabolism and ketogenesis
• Isolate and culture primary mouse hepatocytes under controlled conditions
• Analyze gene/protein expression in cells and tissues to explore pathways involved in MCFA metabolism
• Collect, process, and analyze data, present findings in lab meetings

Skills and requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Nutritional Sciences, or a related field
• Enrolled in a master's program in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, physiology, nutrition, or a related discipline
• Strong interest in cellular and molecular biology, energy metabolism, nutrition, or physiology
• Prior laboratory experience (cell culture, qPCR, western blotting) is an advantage but not required

We offer:

• Intensive scientific support, collaboration with internal & international institutions
• Excellent technical equipment, a wide range of experimental methods (cell culture, biochemical and molecular techniques) and a dynamic, interactive environment
• Opportunity to contribute to novel findings with high publication potential

Contact

If you are interested in this research, please send your application until latest February 28th, 2026 via E-Mail to studenten@dife.de.

For further information please do not hesitate to contact: 

Prof. Dr. Maximilian Kleinert
Head of Department MPEN
E-Mail: Maximilian.Kleinert@dife.de 

Dr. Ye Cao
Researcher in the Department MPEN
E-Mail: Ye.Cao@dife.de 

We promote the employment of people with severe disabilities and are committed to equal opportunities for them. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration if they have the same qualifications.

We process your application documents for the purpose of carrying out the application procedure in accordance with Art. 6 para. 1 lit. b) GDPR, Art. 88 GDPR. For more information on the collection, processing and use of personal data by the German Institute of Human Nutrition as part of the application process and your rights under data protection law, please contact the Department of Human Resources and Social Services  (jobs@dife.de).