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Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology :
Chair of Applied Microbiology
In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (39.83 hours/week = 100%) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for a
Postdoctoral researcher in antibiotic research (m/f/x), 39.83 hours/week, 2 years
The research interests at the Chair of Applied Microbiology at the Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology focus on the discovery and biological characterization of antibiotics. We seek to fill a doctoral position to address the “Mass spectrometry-assisted discovery and biological characterization of novel antibacterial agents”.
The goal of the postdoctoral research project will be the identification and characterization of novel antibiotics using mass-spectrometry-based methods. A special emphasis will be on the determination of cellular antibiotic concentrations to elucidate uptake and retention, and on the monitoring of target engagement. The postdoctoral researcher will have responsibility for mass spectrometry instrumentation and in that capacity collaborate closely with team members.
Scope: full-time
Duration: fixed-term, 2 years
Start: at the earliest possible date
Apply by: 2026-05-20
Your tasks:
Methods will focus on HPLC-coupled high-resolution mass spectrometry to identify novel natural products (metabolomics), to support structure elucidation (metabolite characterization), to quantify cellular antibiotic levels, and to establish and perform assays for in cellulo mechanism of action verification (metabolite and protein analysis). In addition to applying established and to develop novel assays, the successful candidate will be responsible for mass spectrometry instrumentation and train staff and students.
Your profile:
The successful canditate will have earned a Master’s degree in natural sciences or life sciences such as Microbiology / Biology / Biochemistry / Chemistry / Biotechnology or related subject area. The candidate will hold a PhD or equivalent qualification.
The candidate will have solid knowledge of chromatography and mass spectrometry and at least three years of hands-on experience in operating mass spectrometers to analyze metabolites and/or proteins in biological samples. A solid knowledge in microbiology, microbial physiology, or chemical biology is a plus. Experience in natural product research and antibiotic research will be of benefit, as will be prior responsibility for instrumentation.
Excellent computer skills, excellent English skills, excellent teamwork and communication are expected.
It is expected that the candidate will present their research results at national and international scientific meetings and contribute to their publication in international peer-reviewed journals.
We offer:
Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence, Employment at one of the largest universities in Germany within the University Alliance Ruhr, A qualified on-boarding and induction process, Collaboration in a committed and appreciative team, A varied sports program with around 100 sport disciplines and the university's own gym
Further information:
The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at (in German).
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
The load of teaching will be calculated according to § 3 of Lehrverpflichtungsverordnung (state of North Rhine-Westphalia).
Please send job applications consisting of CV, statement of motivation, certificates, transcripts of records, and – if available - letters of recommendation. Please note that only complete applications can be taken into consideration.
RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/sbgk/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.
Contact persons for further information:
Prof. Dr. Julia Bandow Tel.: +49 234 32 23102
Dr. Sina Schäkermann Tel.: +49 234 32 25701
Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-05-20. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5696.
RUHR-UNIVERSITÄT BOCHUM
44801 Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
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