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 motivated PhD candidate to investigate how antimicrobial resistance mutations influence bacterial virulence in clinically relevant pathogens (Haemophilus influenzae, Serratia marcescens). This interdisciplinary project combines microbial genomics, transcriptomics, and in vitro infection models to explore the adaptive trade-offs between drug resistance and virulence phenotypes. The position is funded for 3 years and embedded in a collaborative, international research environment with access to state-of-the-art next generation sequencing and cell culture facilities.

Your qualifications

• Master degree in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Evolutionary Biology or equivalent
• Practical experience with bacterial cultivation techniques (familiarity of BSL-2 biosafety protocols)
• Proficient in working under sterile conditions
• Ideally, experience with mammalian cell culture systems, e.g. air-liquid-interfaces
• Strong interest in microbial genomics and transcriptomics
• Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment
• Good organizational skills and the ability to work independently and responsibly
• 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 31.05.2025 to our website www.fz-borstel.de.