1 Doctoral Researcher Position on Control of microbial adhesion through physically and chemically nanostructured materials surfaces for the reduction in Germany | Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC)

The Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC) is funded by the German Excellence Initiative. JSMC is an ambitious Graduate School with over 150 doctoral researchers who are educated in a structured, interdisciplinary training program based on top-level fundamental research. It conceptionally combines different research areas to a comprehensive picture of microbial communication. Institutes at five faculties of the Friedrich Schiller University Jena, six non-university research institutes as well as 12 partner companies are participating in this cutting-edge research and training program.

The Graduate School of Excellence ‘JSMC’ invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher Position TV-L E13 65% (Ref.No. 99/2014) to conduct research on the project:

Control of microbial adhesion through physically and chemically nanostructured materials surfaces for the reduction of materials-associated infections

The interaction of microbes and artificial surfaces is a key factor in infectious disease pathogenesis. Understanding the involved mechanisms is crucial for developing strategies to prevent infections related to implants. The highly interdisciplinary project, including both microbiology and materials science, aims to identify fundamental adhesion mechanisms of Staph. aureus and Candida albicans on biomaterials depending on the materials surface and microbial surface physico-chemical properties.

We expect:

• a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in natural sciences, candidates about to earn their degree are welcome to apply
• desirable methodological skills: basic knowledge in microbiology, physics, microscopy and statistics is advantageous. High motivation of the candidate is expected, furthermore, to acquire the necessary knowledge and methodological skills in microbiology and materials science (support will be provided)
• high motivation and interest to join one of the interdisciplinary research areas of JSMC
• creativity and interest to shape your own thesis project
• an integrative and cooperative personality with enthusiasm for actively participating in the lively JSMC Community
• very good communication skills in English (instruction language at JSMC)

We offer:

• a highly communicative atmosphere within a scientific network providing top-level research facilities
• a doctoral researcher position (TV-L E13, 65%) funded for three years based on the regulations of the German Research Foundation as well as generous research funding
• a comprehensive mentoring program with supervision by a team of advisors
• a top-level PhD training program with courses in state-of-the-art research technologies and soft skills
• Jena – the German City of Science 2008: a young and lively town with dynamic business activities, successful scientific centers of innovation and a vibrant cultural scene around the famous Friedrich Schiller University