Hannover Medical School, Germany At the Institute of Molecular and Cell Physiology, Hannover Medical School, we are seeking a highly motivated and talented PhD candidate to contribute to key scientific research. Students of all nationalities with an interest in biophysics and nanotechnology are welcome to apply. Students with a physics background and interest in learning biology and applying biophysical tools to address key questions are encouraged to apply. Prior experience and strong interest in microscopy and programming would be a plus. Starting date of the project: The project can be started at the earliest possible date The PhD student will use state-of-the-art techniques to investigate the underlying mechanisms of cardiomyopathy. Project description: Inherited cardiomyopathies are the main cause of failing heart and even sudden cardiac death (SCD) in competitive athletes and young individuals. Single point mutations in genes encoding key sarcomeric proteins, such as the major force-generating motor protein, β-cardiac myosin (β-myosin) and myosin-binding protein C (cMyBPc) are responsible for nearly 80 % of all the inherited cardiomyopathy cases. The severity of the disease depends on the site of mutations in contractile proteins, which impair protein function, triggering a cascade of changes in cardiac muscle and thereby compromising cardiac function. Our goal is to identify the primary defects in sarcomeric proteins that harbour cardiomyopathy mutations. The project aims to investigate functional changes in biophysical and biochemical properties using state-of-the-art single-molecule function-assessment techniques, such as optical trapping and Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence microscopy (TIRF). Understanding the fundamental mechanism of sarcomeric protein function and dysfunction is key to developing effective treatment strategies. We offer comprehensive training and intensive support for learning the above-mentioned methods using state-of-the-art equipments. A Master of Science or an equivalent degree. Candidates should have excellent academic records, prior research experience, a strong interest in science, and a commitment to meeting the diverse challenges of PhD work. Key competencies include an analytical approach, willingness to take responsibility, patience, flexibility, and reliability. Experience with fluorescence microscopy and programming skills is considered advantageous. Strong communication and writing skills in both English and German. Three-year PhD position, starting at the earliest possible date. The position is funded in accordance with the German TV-L salary scales. The opportunity to perform cutting-edge research in an international research environment with excellent research facilities, and a chance to work with experts from an interdisciplinary background An exciting project with defined objectives and clinical significance