Student / Research Assistant (m/f/d)

Student / Research Assistant (m/f/d)

Job Code: 13-2026

Job Offer from October 20, 2026

Founded in 2008, the Max-Planck-Institute for Biology of Ageing in Cologne is at the center of a globally unique network of research institutes in the field of aging research. Our modern fish facility houses the naturally short-lived turquoise killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri), an important model organism for studying aging and age-related processes. The facility enables scientists to quickly and efficiently test genes and treatments associated with lifespan, which have been identified in other systems such as long-lived human cohorts, C. elegans, or D. melanogaster, in a short-lived vertebrate. To support this work, we provide a wide range of services, including breeding assistance, generation of transgenic lines, and phenotyping.

To support our dedicated team in ongoing research projects, we are seeking a highly motivated university student to assist with essential tasks in our fish facility, with a starting date of 15 November 2026 or later.

Main Responsibilities

• Providing feeding support on weekend or public holidays
• Examining fish health and maintaining optimal water conditions
• Collecting and monitoring the development of fish embryos, including clean-up and transfer
• Performing DNA extraction, genotyping and other molecular biology experiments
• Performing fish sample preparation and other related experiments
• Collaborating and communicating with the fish facility manager, animal caretakers and scientists

Your Qualifications

• Must be enrolled at a German university (preferably in biology or a related field)
• Reliability, independence, and a strong sense of responsibility
• Interest in working with fish and supporting research in an interdisciplinary scientific environment
• Ability to work carefully, precisely, and follow established protocols