1 Doctoral Researcher Position on Discovery of Small Molecule Inhibitors of Multicellular Development 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. 105/2014) to conduct research on the project:

Discovery of Small Molecule Inhibitors of Multicellular Development

The research proposed centers around one major question: what are the small molecules that orchestrate or interfere with communication and multicellular associations in eukaryotes? The aim will be to identify natural products that mediate these processes in the social amoeba, Dictyostelium discoideum in association with both its predators and prey. Understanding the function and regulation of these small molecules can provide us with a deep knowledge of fundamental eukaryotic signaling processes.

We expect:

• a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Natural Sciences (Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Microbiology). Candidates about to earn their degree are welcome to apply.
• desirable methodological skills: Analytical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Microbiology
• 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