registration number:
fb16-0006-wmz-2026
Entry date: 2026-10-01
Application deadline: 2026-07-26
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.
The Department of Pharmacy, research group on “RNA biochemistry”, Prof. Dr. Julia Weigand, is currently accepting applications for a
Research Assistant (Doctoral Researcher/PhD )
The position is offered for a period of 3 years, if no former times of qualification must be considered. The starting date is 1 October 2026. 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, 65 %).
We seek motivated and dedicated individuals to conduct cutting-edge RNA research in an interdisciplinary and highly collaborative environment. This position is funded as part of the CRC/Transregio 440: “smART – specific mRNA targeting”, with the goal of developing new RNA-based technologies to control the function of disease-relevant eukaryotic mRNAs.
Tasks:
- Scientific services in research and teaching, with a focus on RNA-ligand interactions
- Development of screening platforms for the high-throughput characterization of RNA-targeting small molecules using RNA structural probing techniques e.g., SHAPE-MaP
- Establishment of RNA-targeting small molecule libraries
- Development of high-affinity RNA-targeting molecules for the regulation of protein biosynthesis
- Detailed characterization of RNA interactions with small molecules and RNA-binding proteins
- mRNA structure analyses within collaborative projects of the TRR 440
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 biochemistry, biolgy or a related field in the life and natural sciences
- Highly motivated individual who thrives in working as part of a team
- Practical experience in the field of biochemistry and/or molecular biology
- Critical thinking and an enthusiasm for scientific inquiry and experimental work
- Prior experience in RNA synthesis, analysis of sequencing results, and/or RNA structural analysis is an advantage
- Excellent English proficiency is required; knowledge of German is an advantage
Disposition to own scientific qualification, i.e. a doctorate project in the area RNA biochemistry, is expected.
We offer:
- A strong research environment within an interdisciplinary team comprising over 20 research groups in the field of RNA biochemistry and RNA therapeutics
- Membership in the integrated graduate school of TRR 440, which offers workshops and seminars on RNA research, bioinformatics, career development, and science communication
- The “Landesticket” for free use of public transportation in Hesse
We actively support the professional development of junior researchers by the offers of the IRTG of the TRR 440, the Marburg Research Academy (MARA), the International Office and the Higher Education Didactics Office.
Contact for more Information Prof. Julia Weigand
+49 6421-28 25807
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 26 July 2026 using the application-button below.