PhD position in Environmental Epidemiology; f​/m​/d

PhD position in Environmental Epidemiology (f/m/d)

Several research groups at the IUF are investigating how environmental factors such as ultraviolet radiation, air pollution and food chemicals affect the physiology and pathophysiology of different organs. The working group ‘Environmental Epidemiology of Lung, Brain and Skin Ageing’ focuses on the epidemiological aspects of air pollution‑induced ageing and chronic lung, brain and skin diseases. We are particularly interested in the complex interplay between these organs, as well as gene‑environment interactions.

Our studies are of global relevance and are conducted not only in Germany, but also in other European and Asian countries.

The working group “Environmental epidemiology of lung, brain and skin ageing” at the IUF – Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine in Düsseldorf is offering a PhD position in Environmental Epidemiology (f/m/d).

The position is to be filled at IUF as of May 1 st , 2026

• Recruit a new PhD student to conduct DFG‑funded research in Germany and Poland. The successful candidate will investigate the impact of environmental factors on lung and cognitive health throughout the lifespan.
• They will be required to travel to Poland to support partners in building a cohort in three cities and conducting a mortality follow‑up in a German cohort.

• Master in Public Health, or equivalent;
• Experience in environmental epidemiological research;
• In-depth understanding of statistical modeling and epidemiological techniques as well as substantial experience in working with statistical software (SAS or R);
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint;
• Strong verbal and written communication skills are required (English and German).

• Positive can‑do attitude, responsible and responsive, and maintain a high degree of ethical standard and trustworthiness;
• Self‑motivated, highly organized, meticulous hands‑on habits, keen to accuracy, and attention to detail;
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills; able to reach rational conclusions through the complex processing of information.
• Energised by accomplishments and excellence in the workplace. Competent in delivering high performance in both independent work and coordinated group projects.
• Evaluate results, analyse and interpret data, and prepare project updates, meeting presentations and research reports for documentation and publication.

The position is funded for 3 years. The weekly working time totals 25 hours and 54 minutes. Remuneration is given in accordance with the provisions of the collective agreement for the employees of the states (TV‑L). Salary will be according to TV‑L (E13).

Please address your application (incl. letter of motivation, CV, references, and qualification certificates), preferably electronically, with the reference "Environmental Epidemiology" in the subject line to:

Application documents submitted by post are not returned. Documents for applicants not considered are destroyed appropriately once the procedure is complete.