Robert Hock

Robert Hock serves as an Assistant Professor and molecular cell biologist at Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg's Biocenter, specifically within the Department of Zoology I - Cell and Developmental Biology. Since 2007, he has managed faculty business operations and organized Bachelor and Master study programs while maintaining minimal research engagement.

His research centers on high mobility group (HMG) proteins—nuclear proteins that bind DNA and nucleosomes, inducing structural changes in chromatin fibers. These proteins critically regulate chromatin dynamics affecting transcription, replication, and cellular differentiation. Dr. Hock investigates how HMG protein levels influence cellular phenotypes, developmental abnormalities, and disease pathogenesis, with key publications in Trends in Cell Biology (2007) and Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (2010).

He earned his doctorate in cell biology from Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, followed by postdoctoral research at the National Cancer Institute (NIH, Bethesda) focusing on architectural chromatin proteins. After returning to Würzburg as a project group leader, he completed his habilitation in Cell and Developmental Biology before transitioning to academic administration.

Administrative Responsibilities:

• Faculty business management since 2007
• Organization of Bachelor and Master study programs