registration number:
ZE-0058-synmikro-wmz-2026
Entry date: 2026-10-01
Application deadline: 2026-08-09
Salary: E 13 TV-H
Duration:
3 years
Volume of employment: part-time (65%)
The University of Marburg, founded in 1527, offers a variety of excellent programs of study for around 22,000 students and confronts the important topics of our time through excellent research across a broad spectrum of sciences.
Sited in the Research Training Group “Nucleotide Metabolism in Microbes” (GRK 2937, “MiNu”), we are seeking
for a
Doctoral Researcher/PhD
The third-party funded position is offered for a period of 3 years, if no former times of qualification must be considered. The starting date is October 1st, 2026 or later. The position is part-time (65% of regular working hours) with salary and benefits commensurate with a public service position in the state Hesse, Germany (TV-H
E 13).
The Research Training Group “Nucleotide Metabolism in Microbes” (GRK 2937, “MiNu”), funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), analyzes those chemical building blocks (nucleotides) that many cellular cofactors as well as nucleic acids such as DNA and RNA are composed of, in different microbial species in order to uncover both their valid principles of nucleotide metabolism, species-specific adaptations in nucleotide-related metabolic pathways, and mechanisms for nucleotide modifications.
The PhD position is located in the subproject no. 5 led by Prof. Dr. Lars-Oliver Essen. The main focus is on the investigation of bacterial cAMP metabolism and addresses the questions how intra- and extracellular cAMP controls the bacterial phenotype.
Tasks:
- Development of an original research project with high independence
- Investigation of cell cAMP-metabolism in Rhizobiales and other microbes using cutting-edge omics tools
- Application of structural biology techniques and de novo protein prediction tools for mechanism-based research on the control of cAMP metabolism
- Characterization of the diversity of cAMP-based prokaryotic signaling, in multidisciplinary collaborations within an international environment
- International communication in research by publications and participation in conferences
- Opportunity for aiding in student courses and teaching in seminars for students
The position is limited to a time period deemed adequate for the completion of a doctoral degree. As part of the assigned duties, there will be ample opportunity to conduct the independent scientific research necessary for the completion of a doctorate. The limitation complies to Section 2 (1) of the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG).
Profile:
- MSc-degree or equivalent in the field of biochemistry, biology, or chemistry, with a focus on biochemistry and/or structural biology
- Some experience with microorganisms and/or molecular biological techniques
- Ability to carry out biochemical experiments including protein purification, characterization and assays
- Motivated and passionate team player: Curiosity, high self-motivation, and enthusiasm to develop your research project
- Experience or at least interest in structural biology and/or omics techniques
- Ideally knowledge of bioinformatics, e.g. computer programming using Python
Disposition to own scientific qualification (e.g. a doctoral project in the field of biochemistry with a focus on structural/systems biology) is expected.
We actively support the professional development of junior researchers by the offers of Marburg Research Academy (MARA), the International Office and the Higher Education Didactics Office, as well as through the opportunity to participate in various graduate programs.
We offer:
- A highly dynamic research environment that offers a modern and comprehensive research infrastructure
- Ticket for free use of public transport in the state Hesse, Germany
- Company pension scheme (VBL)
Contact for more Information Prof. Dr. Lars-Oliver Essen
+49 6421-28 22032
We support women and strongly encourage them to apply. In areas where women are underrepresented, female applicants will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. As a certified family-friendly university, we support our employees in balancing family and career. A reduction of working time is possible. as discribed in the Social Security Code (Section 2(2) and (3) of Book IX of the Social Security Code (SGB IX)) will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. Application and interview costs can not be refunded.
Please apply by 09.08.2026 using the application-button below.