PhD Student (f/m/d)

The research group „Structure and Function of Molecular Machines“ of Prof. Dr. Hauke Hillen at the Institute of Cellular Biochemistry is inviting

• Specialization: molecular & structural biology of mitochondria
• Limitation: fixed term for 3 years
• Working period: 25,025 hours/week
• Tariff: salary according to TV-L
• Announcement published on 12.10.2022
• Vacancy from 12.10.2022
• Application deadline: 28.10.2022

Our research is aimed at understanding the structure and function of molecular machineries in eukaryotic cells and organelles, with a focus on human mitochondria. These sub-cellular organelles play important and diverse roles in eukaryotic cells, and their dysfunction leads to severe disease in humans. We are particularly interested in the molecular mechanisms underlying mitochondrial gene expression, how this process is regulated and how it is embedded in the cellular context. To study this, we combine structural biology (single-particle cryo-electron microscopy, X-Ray crystallography and cryo-electron tomography) with biochemical, biophysical and cell biological approaches. For recent examples on our research, see PMID: 34489609, 34135319, 33328633, 29149603 and 29033127.

We offer access to state-of-the art instrumentation for cryo-EM (including two 300 kV Titan Krios TEMs, a 200 kV Glacios TEM and two Aquilos 2 FIB-SEMs as well as correlative fluorescent and light microscopy devices), X-Ray crystallography and various modern biophysical techniques. Göttingen is a vibrant, international student town located in the center of Germany and, in addition to its university, is home to a number of renowned research institutes, which together form the Göttingen Research Campus.

Your responsibilities:

• combine cutting-edge structural biology, protein- and RNA biochemistry as well as cellular methods to dissect mitochondrial molecular biology from the atomic to the organellar scale
• drive your own research project in a collaborative team with close mentoring and supervision
• present & communicate research results at national and international scientific meetings
• gain experience in mentoring and teaching of students

Our offer:

• high-impact research field with biomedical relevance
• small, international and diverse research group with a strong team spirit and an open-minded, collaborative and respectful working atmosphere
• access to state-of-the-art infrastructure & hands-on training in latest methods in molecular biology and structural biology methods.
• structured cross-institutional graduate program that offers numerous mentoring and career support opportunities

Your profile:

• applicants should hold a M.Sc. or equivalent degree in the life sciences or a related discipline
• previous experience in structural biology, protein- or RNA biochemistry is advantageous, but not required
• fluent English language skills (written and spoken) are required

The University Medical Center Göttingen is committed to professional equality. We therefore seek to increase the proportion of under-represented genders. Applicants with disabilities and equal qualifications will be given preferential treatment.

We look forward to receiving your application by 28.10.2022:

Please send your application only via e-mail as a PDF-file.

Travel and application fees cannot be refunded or transferred.

Download job posting