The German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) is a unique non-university research center which is dedicated to the subject dementia and all its areas, as well as other neurodegenerative diseases. The center compasses the full spectrum of fundamental research through population sciences to health care research. The DZNE stands for excellence in research and science management, translation of scientific results into practice, interdisciplinarity and internationalization. It is a research center within the Helmholtz Organization of German research centers. With over 1,000 employees from 55 nations, spread over 10 sites, the DZNE is one of the national and international leading research centers in its research field. Within the area of Population Health Sciences in Bonn we are looking for a

PhD Student (Epidemiologist / Data Scientist) f/m:
Nutrition and Brain Health

Code 1590/2018/8

The link between nutrition and health related outcome is one of our major interests. For this, we collaborate with multiple partners in the Bonn-based Competence Cluster on "Diet-Body-Brain" (DietBB) and in two international consortia within the European Joint Programming Initiative "A Healthy Diet for a Healthy Life" (AMBROSIAC and HEALTHMARK). We aim to understand the mechanisms through which diet and food intake influence health and disease risk, with a special focus on the impact of nutrition on brain structure and function. In our research we integrate data from dietary assessments, neuroimaging, multi-omics ((epi-)genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, microbiomics) and extensive clinical data with information on individual preferences and behavioral aspects such as physical activity. The research is led by Prof. Monique M.B. Breteler, Director of Population Health Sciences at the DZNE, and primarily based on the Rhineland Study. This prospective population based cohort study will include up to 30,000 people aged 30 years and over, run for decades, and emphasizes brain-related outcomes. Study facilities encompass 2 fully operational examination centers equipped with state-of-the art apparatus including dedicated 3T MRI scanners, advanced bio-banking facilities and large data storage and computational resources. Your tasks
The main aim of this PhD project is to elucidate the impact of nutrition on brain structure and function across the life span. To this end, information on dietary intake from participants in the Rhineland Study will be linked to extensive cognitive performance and advanced neuroimaging data. Responsibilities include supervision and monitoring of data acquisition and processing, analysis of data and preparation of manuscripts for publication in international journals as well as active participation in national and international conferences. Your profile
We are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious researcher who will further contribute to the development of this research area within the framework of the study. The successful candidate holds an excellent master/diploma degree in medicine, epidemiology, data science or related discipline. Working experience in epidemiological research or large-scale clinical studies is an advantage. Demonstrable interest in quantitative research, strong analytical skills, ability for independent and critical thinking, and excellent communication and writing skills in the English language are prerequisites. Creative, highly motivated and team-oriented candidates who dare to take initiative and enjoy working in a fast-growing, dynamic research environment in an internationally oriented biomedical institution, are strongly encouraged to apply. Common language at work is English. We offer

• As PhD student you will be supervised jointly by Prof. Breteler and an experienced PostDoctoral researcher in our group
• Additionally, you will participate in the Clinical and Population Science Graduate School (BIGS-CPS) and participate in regular trainings and scientific retreats
• The position is initially limited to three years with the possibility of extension.
• Employment, payment and social benefits are consistent with those at other research institutes

You will obtain special skills and knowledge for your scientific qualification during your activities at DZNE. The DZNE is an equal opportunity employer. It especially welcomes and encourages disabled individuals to apply. Please apply via the following link: https://jobs.dzne.de/en/jobs/10227/form Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.