We are a chromatin lab that is looking for a student with experience in human skin biology seeking to obtain a PhD investigating the role of chromatin regulators in skin biology. Based in the Institute of Molecular Biology and Tumorbiology (IMT) of the Philipps-University in Marburg, the post holder will join the team of Dr. Jacqueline Mermoud, which dissects the epigenetic basis of cell identity to understand its mis-regulation in disease. The projects focus is elucidation of the role of the chromatin remodeling enzyme SMARCAD1 in human skin. Haploinsufficiency in SMARCAD1 enzyme results in autosomal dominant skin diseases referred to collectively as 'SMARCAD syndrome'. These humans carry a mutation in the SMARCAD1 gene, are born without fingerprints and have a 15% increased risk of cancer. The impact of skin disease associated SMARCAD1 mutations on the chromatin landscape and gene regulation is not known. The successful candidate will determine how the remodeler SMARCAD1 functions in normal skin biology and investigate the mechanisms that underpin SMARCAD syndrome. The project employs next generation sequencing (NGS) methods (including transcriptome profiling, genome wide chromatin immunoprecipitation, ATAC-seq and bioinformatics) as well as mechanistic and functional analysis of chromatin associated proteins, biochemistry. Additionally we plan to exploit 3-D organotypic cultures and iPS cells. The position would be ideal for someone with a background in skin research and an interest in epigenetics. Masters in Molecular Biology, Human Biology or a related discipline. solid background in skin research, cell culture techniques (e.g. iPS cells, primary skin cells) and establishment and/or handling of organoid models the ideal candidate (f/m/d) is self-motivated, responsible and responsive, is commited to scientific excellence and has a positive can-do attitude motivation to work independently and being responsible for the daily management of the research project in coordination with other members of the group/collaborators is expected. The candidate will also be actively involved in the training and co-supervision of other group members and students. strong verbal and written communication skills are required experience in the following areas will be an asset: bioinformatics, chromatin 3 year position, available immediately the Institute has a well-developed research infrastructure with excellent state of the art core facilities the Mermoud lab is part of several national and international research networks, allowing active exchange and support to develop strong research and soft skills which will help to achieve scientific and career goals the Philipps-University promotes equal opportunity and provides a friendly, dynamic working environment Marburg is an attractive small town in the heart of Germany in close vicinity to Frankfurt