Postdoctoral Researcher "Metabolic regulation of liver regeneration"

Location: Medical University of Vienna

Position Type: Post-doc, full-time

About the lab

Our lab explores metabolism across multiple scales—from subcellular compartments to whole-body regulation. We use the liver’s remarkable regenerative capacity as a model system to investigate how metabolic processes drive cell division, tissue repair, and systemic metabolic balance. By combining in vivo physiology with cutting-edge imaging, molecular biology, and multi-omics approaches, we aim to bridge fundamental science with clinical applications.

About the Project

This postdoctoral position focuses on the regulation of liver and whole-body metabolism during healthy and deregulated liver regeneration. The project will be based on employing advanced methodologies, including:

* Preclinical mouse models with surgical interventions, including jugular vein catheterizations and partial hepatectomies

* Genetic and dietary mouse models to study metabolic pathways in liver regeneration

* Proteomics, metabolomics and isotope tracing to map metabolic fluxes

* Mass spectrometry imaging to visualize spatial metabolic changes

* Nuclear medicine approaches, including PET imaging, to explore systemic metabolic adaptations

Our goal is to uncover how metabolic networks are rewired during regeneration and how these insights can be leveraged for therapeutic interventions in liver disease. The infrastructure, approvals, and experimental setups are already established, allowing immediate engagement in research activities.

Qualifications

We are looking for a motivated and creative scientist with expertise in metabolism, liver biology, or related fields.

* PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline; MDs/Physicians with relevant research experience are also welcome to apply.

* Strong background in mouse work, including surgical procedures.

* Expertise in flow cytometry and confocal microscopy.

* Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.

* Proficiency in English (written and spoken).

* Experience in mass spectrometry, isotope tracing, or -omics analysis is a plus

* Interest in learning and applying new experimental techniques throughout the project.

Opportunities and Benefits

* Fully funded position with salary according to the FWF guidelines

* Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and collaborative networks (national and international)

* The possibility of a 6-12 month research stay at Harvard Medical School in Boston, USA, if desired.

* A supportive research environment within a young team.

* Support in applying for grants to develop independent research directions.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following documents to anne.miller(at)meduniwien.ac.at

* CV (including publication list)

* Letter of Motivation outlining research interests and relevant experience

* Contact information for at least two references

For more information on our work: https://pbg.meduniwien.ac.at/forschung/forschung-medizinische-genetik/forschungsgruppen/miller-lab/