registration number:
ZE-0004-synmikro-wmz-2026
Entry date: as soon as possible
Application deadline: 2026-02-01
Salary: E 13 TV-H
Duration:
3 years
Volume of employment: part-time (65%)
The University of Marburg, founded in 1527, offers a variety of excellent programs of study for around 22,000 students and confronts the important topics of our time through excellent research across a broad spectrum of sciences.
At the Microcosm Earth Center, in the group of Dr. Rebecca Hinrichs, a part-time position (65% of regular working hours) is available as
Research Assistant (Doctoral Researcher/PhD)
The position is offered for a period of 3 years if no former times of qualification must be considered. The starting date is as soon as possible. The position is part-time (65 % of regular working hours) with salary and benefits that commensurate with a public service position in the state of Hesse, Germany (TV-H E 13).
The aim of the project is to investigate the function and regulation of nucleases involved in DNA uptake during natural competence (transformation) of bacteria using the model organism Bacillus subtilis. Selected nucleases will be characterized using biochemical and molecular biological approaches.
Tasks:
- Scientific services in research and teaching
- Biochemical and structural characterization of nucleases
- Cell biological and physiological analysis of B. subtilis strains
The position is limited to a time period deemed adequate for the completion of a doctoral degree. In addition to the assigned duties, there will be ample opportunity to conduct the independent scientific research necessary for the completion of a doctorate. The limitation complies to § 2 sec. 1 WissZeitVG.
Profile:
- MSc-degree or equivalent in Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field in science
- Experience in handling organisms of the BSL1 risk category, as well as familiarity with standard biochemical and molecular biological methods
- High level of commitment to pursuing your own scientific qualifications
- Initiative, motivation, ability to work in a team, good self-organization skills
- Good written and spoken English skills
- Strong interest in scientific research in a multidisciplinary environment
Dedication to own scientific qualification (e.g. a doctorate in Biochemistry or Microbiology) is expected.
We offer:
- A diverse and international working environment in an excellent research setting at the Center for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO) and the Microcosm Earth Center — a collaboration between Philipps University Marburg and the MPI for Terrestrial Microbiology
- A wide range of continuing training opportunities for professional and personal development
- An inspiring, modern campus with access to diverse methodologies (state-of-the-art technologies)
- Free use of public transportation in Hesse (Landesticket)
- Option of mobile working
- Company pension plan (VBL)
We actively support the professional development of junior researchers by the offers of Marburg Research Academy (MARA), the International Office and the Higher Education Didactics Office.
Contact for more Information Dr. Rebecca Hinrichs
+49 6421-28 21673
rebecca.hinrichs@synmikro.uni-marburg.de
We support women and strongly encourage them to apply. In areas where women are underrepresented, female applicants will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. As a certified family-friendly university, we support our employees in balancing family and career. A reduction of working time is possible. Applicants with a disability as discribed in SGB IX (§ 2 Abs. 2, 3) will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. Application and interview costs can not be refunded.
Please apply by February 1st 2026 by using the application-button below.