1 Doctoral Researcher Position on Exploring the chemical potential and mechanisms of marine microbe-invertebrate interactions 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. 104/2014) to conduct research on the project:

Exploring the chemical potential and mechanisms of marine microbe-invertebrate interactions

The aim of this project is to analyze and characterize the holobiont of a marine invertebrate model system, to identify crucial bacteria species and to determine their ecological role and biosynthetic potential. We are especially interested in the isolation and chemical analysis of marine Actinobacteria to exploit untapped biosynthetic potential. We will apply state of the art chemical analytical methods as well as next-generation sequencing methodologies to reach our goals.

We expect:

• a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in chemistry or other natural and life sciences (e.g. biology, microbiology, bioinformatics, biomedical sciences, e.t.c). Candidates about to earn their degree are welcome to apply.
• desirable methodological skills: skills in analytical methods (HPLC, NMR, HRMS, UV-VIS) and good knowledge in organic chemistry, or skills in microbiology and molecular biology (fermentation, PCR, primer design, gene modification, protein expression, BLAST)
• 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