PhD position (m/f/d) in the field of microbiology

We are announcing a 65%

PhD position (m/f/d) in the field of microbiology

The position is offered for 3 years.

The Research Center Borstel (RCB) is an internationally operating Lung Center within the Leibniz Association, financed by the Federal Government and the State of Schleswig-Holstein. Our central task is basic and translational research in the field of respiratory diseases. We operate extensive laboratory and research infrastructures. Academically, we are closely linked with neighboring universities (Lübeck, Kiel) and clinically with the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein. Our goal is to improve existing methods for the detection, prevention and treatment of lung diseases and to develop new, innovative therapeutic approaches.

JOB DESCRIPTION

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to investigate how pathogens and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes are distributed via dust particles in and around agricultural facilities. This interdisciplinary project is conducted in close collaboration with partners at the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) and other Leibniz institutes. It combines bacterial cultivation, molecular biology, and microbial genomics to better understand the transmission risk of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens via bioaerosols and dust particles. The position is funded for three years and embedded in a collaborative, international research environment. The successful candidate will have access to state-of-the-art next-generation sequencing platforms, bioinformatics resources, and biosafety level 2 laboratory facilities, offering excellent conditions for doctoral training and scientific development.

YOUR QUALIFICATION

• Master degree in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, or a related field
• Practical experience with nucleic acid extraction and PCR-based techniques
• Experience with bacterial cultivation and proficiency in sterile laboratory techniques
• Basic experience or strong interest in microbial genomics and sequencing-based analyses
• High motivation to work in an interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment
• Good organizational skills and the ability to work independently and responsibly
• Very good written and spoken English skills

OUR OFFER

• Your new workplace is located in a top class research center close to Hamburg
• Participation in a productive and active team
• Personal atmosphere and support
• Payment according to TVöD-VKA incl. all benefits usually offered in the public sector
• Family-friendly working conditions and flexible working hours
• Childcare centre and workplace health promotion

The FZB is certified for the "berufundfamilie" audit and specifically promotes the compatibility of career and family. The under-represented gender is given special consideration while maintaining the same professional and personal aptitude. Severely handicapped persons with otherwise equal aptitude are also given preferential consideration.

For more information about our certifications, please visit our homepage.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Prof. Matthias Merker (mmerker(at)fz-borstel.de).

Please send your application with the usual documents (without photo) up to 15.03.2026 to our website www.fz-borstel.de.