Fachbereich Physik – Institut für Experimentalphysik Arbeitsgruppe HorchResearch assistant (Praedoc) (m/f/d) with 67 % part-time job limited to 31.12.2025 Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L FU Reference Code: Horch-UniSysCat-Cells-2023 Bewerbungsende: 31.10.2022

As part of the Cluster of Excellence ‘Unifying Systems in Catalysis’ (UniSysCat), the Horch research group ‘Ultrafast Dynamics in Catalysis’ aims to understand complex catalytic systems and superordinate reaction networks by using an integrated approach of advanced spectroscopic and theoretical methods. In particular, we are interested in metalloenzymes – huge metal-containing proteins that catalyse, e.g., the conversion of small molecules like H2 and CO2. On the one hand, these complex biological machines are key to the cellular energy metabolism and – possibly – the emergence of Life on earth. On the other hand, their unrivalled efficiency and specificity make them valuable targets for biotechnological applications and bio-inspired catalyst design – given that their mechanistic features are properly understood. Thus, we utilize ultrafast, multidimensional, and computational spectroscopy to explore the structure, function, and dynamics of these fascinating biocatalysts in detail.

More details about the Horch research group, our work, and the Cluster of Excellence UniSysCat, can be found here:

www.physik.fu-berlin.de/en/einrichtungen/ag/ag-horch/
www.unisyscat.de/people/current-group-leaders/horch-marius/
www.unisyscat.de/

Job description:
We offer a PhD position in the project ‘Multidimensional in vivo Spectroscopy: Molecular Structure and Dynamics in Complex Biological Reaction Environments’.

To establish a “greener” chemistry based on living cells, we envisage the design of a cellular system that uses waste material and unlimited sun light for sustainable hydrogen production. Developing such a system requires a detailed understanding of all involved processes on the molecular and cellular level. Together with multiple partners, the successful will develop a multichannel in vivo spectroscopy approach to target the involved biological macromolecules, relevant cytoplasmic factors, and the interplay of these two types of cellular key determinants. Focusing on the hydrogen-producing enzyme, a [NiFe] hydrogenase, this strategy will expand previously established in vivo spectroscopic strategies by introducing ultrafast and multidimensional infrared techniques that yield details insights into structure, dynamics, and environmental interactions. In total, this approach will provide a guideline for the rational design of cellular catalytic systems.

The PhD project is part of the interdisciplinary joint project ‘Light-Supported H2 Production from Waste Material Using Living Cells’ which combines expertise of 7 research groups within the Cluster for Excellence ‘Unifying System in Catalysis’ (UniSysCat).

Field of Work:

– Development, adjustment, and application of ultrafast nonlinear infrared spectroscopic experiments (2D-IR and IR-IR pump-probe)
– Execution of such experiments at international research facilities
– Analysis and interpretation of spectroscopic data
– Interdisciplinary cooperation with other members of the overarching team project
– Manipulation and handling of delicate biological samples supplied by collaboration partners
– If beneficial, calculation of infrared spectroscopic observables by quantum chemical methods
– Writing of scientific articles for publication in international peer-reviewed journals
– Presentation of research results at international scientific conferences

Requirements:
Master’s degree (or equivalent) in the field of physics, physical chemistry, biophysics or similar

Desirable:
Expertise and experience in the following areas is desirable, but knowledge in all them of them is not mandatory. Applications from candidates that are willing to learn about the listed aspects are welcome.
– Excellent university degree
– Experience with infrared spectroscopy or vibrational spectroscopy in general
– Experience with ultrafast nonlinear spectroscopy and data analysis
– Experience with (pulsed) laser sources and (nonlinear) optics
– Experience with quantum chemical calculations
– Experience with the handling of biological and/or oxygen-sensitive samples
– Knowledge in biological, inorganic, and/or photo chemistry
– Programming skills, preferably in Python
– Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
– Creativity, enthusiasm, and a genuine interest in the advertised project
– Fluency in English (spoken and written)

For further information please contact Dr. Marius Horch ([email protected] / +49 30 838 69505).