Job Advertisement
Leibniz-HKI-45/2024
The Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology ( Leibniz-HKI ) investigates the pathobiology of human-pathogenic fungi and identifies targets for the development of novel natural product-based antibiotics. The department Molecular and Applied Microbiology and the junior research group Phagosome Biology and Engineering invite talented and highly motivated candidates to apply as
Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/div)
Host Pathogen Interaction
for two to three years initially
Phagocytosis is a crucial mechanism for clearing microbial pathogens. However, the fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus disrupts the progression of phagocytosis by hindering phagosome maturation and initiating infection. A deeper understanding of the pathogen-induced reprogramming of phagosomes - from a degradative to a non-degradative pathway - will aid in developing novel phagosome-based anti-infective strategies. In this project, the successful applicant will investigate critical aspects of how fungal pathogens manipulate host cell phagocytosis, using all kind of molecular biological, cell biological, microscopic, and proteomic methods.
The project is funded by the Free State of Thuringia with means of the European Social Fund (ESF).
PhD in life sciences (e.g. biology, biochemistry, or microbiology) or a related discipline, preferably within three years of PhD; candidates in the final stages of obtaining their degree are also eligible to apply
A track record of excellent and topically relevant scholarly contributions
Experimental background in one or more of the following subjects is beneficial: molecular biology, microbiology, infection biology, immunology, and cell biology
Practical experience in cell culture, fluorescence microscopy, and fungal genetics is an advantage
Furthermore, the applicant should be able to perform team-oriented as well as independent work
Very good communication skills in English, both written and spoken
The successful candidate will be hosted in the junior research group Phagosome Biology and Engineering, led by Dr. Leijie Jia, and the Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology, led by Prof. Axel Brakhage.
Salary is paid according to German TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees).
We offer a multifaceted scientific project with excellent technical facilities, a place in a committed team, as well as strong scientific collaborations.
The Leibniz-HKI is embedded in the outstanding scientific environment of the Beutenberg Campus providing state-of-the-art research facilities and a highly integrative network of life science groups.