University of Bonn

Overview

The "Brown and Beige Fat - Organ Crosstalk, Signaling and Energetics" (BATenergy) doctoral research programme is an innovative initiative hosted by prestigious institutions, including the University of Bonn and the University of Hamburg. This interdisciplinary programme aims to explore the intricate roles of brown and beige fat in regulating energy balance and the communication mechanisms between organs that control thermogenesis.

What you'll study

As a doctoral researcher in the BATenergy programme, you will engage in cutting-edge research projects that focus on various aspects of brown and beige adipose tissue, thermogenesis, and organ signaling. The programme is structured around collaborative research work packages, scientific exchanges, and developmental activities that enhance your research experience.

Research projects may include:

• Microbiome and thermogenesis after bariatric surgery: Identifying microbiome-based treatment targets that influence adipose tissue energy expenditure through surgical models.
• Intestinal metabolites and adipose responses: Investigating how gut-derived metabolites affect thermogenic activity in both brown and white adipose tissues.
• Liver–adipose endocrine signalling: Characterizing novel hormonal and metabolic signals that facilitate communication during cold exposure and feeding.
• Exercise and human thermogenic adipose tissue: Analyzing the acute and chronic effects of exercise and their underlying mechanisms.
• Endothelial lipoprotein processing: Exploring how the vascular processing of lipoproteins contributes to the plasticity and function of thermogenic adipose tissue.

Doctoral training components typically include:

• Regular project meetings and seminars featuring internal and external speakers
• Interdisciplinary collaboration across participating institutions
• Developmental activities focusing on responsible research, scientific communication, and transferable skills
• Thesis requirement: Completion of a PhD thesis based on your individual research project

Entry requirements

Applicants should possess (or be nearing completion of) a BSc and MSc (or equivalent) in fields such as biology, biochemistry, medicine, physiology, biotechnology, or related life sciences. There are no specific GRE or GMAT requirements for this programme.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BATenergy doctoral programme will be well-equipped for a variety of career paths in academia, research institutions, and the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industries. With a strong foundation in interdisciplinary research and a deep understanding of energy homeostasis and metabolic processes, alumni will contribute to advancements in health, medicine, and related fields.