Research Position (m/f/d) (PhD candidate)

• Start: 01.11.2026
• Vergütung: salary according to Remuneration level E13 TV-L
• Umfang: Teilzeit
• Befristung: befristet ((3 Years))
• Arbeitsort: Bielefeld

The Structural Biochemistry Research Group investigates the structure-function relationship of proteins. A key area of focus is bacterial virulence factors, including the type III secretion system (T3SS) of the human-pathogenic bacterium Yersinia enterocolitica (e.g. Gilzer et al., Nat Commun. 2022, doi 10.1038/s41467-022-30487-1). To continue an ongoing project, we are seeking a candidate who, with enthusiasm, commitment and attention to detail, wishes to investigate the molecular function of individual T3SS proteins and their interactions, using biochemical and X-ray crystallography methods. There is an opportunity to pursue a PhD within the research group’s project.

Ihre Aufgaben

• contributing to research projects on the structure and molecular function of proteins (60 %)
  • molecular biology work (cloning, mutagenesis, etc.)
  • recombinant protein expression, primarily in E. coli
  • functional analyses (e. g. binding assays, enzyme assays, spectroscopy, etc.)
  • protein purification and protein crystallisation
  • X-ray diffraction experiments, data analysis, structure determination
  • Documentation and publication
• teaching duties involving the supervision of practical sessions and tutorials in biochemistry and Chemistry, 2 LVS (25 %)
• organisational duties within the research group (15 %)

Employment is conducive to scientific qualification and provides the opportunity for further academic development.

Ihr Profil

• completed university degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in biochemistry or a related scientific discipline
• in-depth knowledge of biochemistry, Molecular Biology and biophysical Chemistry
• practical experience with molecular biology techniques and recombinant protein expression
• practical experience with protein purification
• ability to work independently, meticulously and with dedication
• ability to work as part of a team
• very good command of spoken and written English and a good command of spoken and written German
• desire to pursue a doctorate
• knowledge of protein structure determination
• practical experience of protein crystallisation and X-ray structural analysis
• practical experience of biophysical methods (e. g. DSF, MST, BLI, ITC, CD, SPR, etc.)
• practical experience in investigating protein-protein interactions

Wir bieten

• internal and external training opportunities
• variety of health, consulting and prevention services
• reconcilability of family and work
• collegial working environment
• open and pleasant working atmosphere
• exciting, varied tasks
• various offers (canteen, cafeteria, restaurants, Uni-Shop, ATM, etc.)

We are looking forward to receiving your application. To apply, please preferably use our online form via the application button below.