Postdoctoral Researcher in Peptide Engineering/Discovery: Join the SynThera initiative at the Friedrich Schiller University of Jena and the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology in a pioneering project focused on designing and deploying synthetic microorganisms for the targeted detection and destruction of bacterial and fungal pathogens.
Postdoctoral Researcher (M/F/DIV) in Antimicrobial Peptide Engineering/Discovery
Designation:
Postdoctoral Researcher
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Antimicrobial Peptide Engineering/Discovery |
| Location | Friedrich Schiller University of Jena / Leibniz-HKI |
| Eligibility/Qualification | PhD in synthetic biology, natural product chemistry, microbiology, life science, or related discipline |
| Job Description | Engineer biosynthetic pathways for natural products, screen antimicrobial activities, utilize robotic platforms for high-throughput testing, collaborate in an interdisciplinary research environment. |
| How to Apply | Submit applications in English via the Leibniz-HKI online application system, including a cover letter, CV, research experience statement, and references. |
| Last Date to Apply | August 22, 2025 (applications reviewed on a rolling basis) |
Research Area:
The project focuses on the design and testing of antimicrobial compounds in response to infection-specific signals, leveraging robotic-assisted technology for efficient screening of antimicrobial peptides.
Location:
Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Germany, in collaboration with the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology.
Eligibility/Qualification:
- PhD in synthetic biology, natural product chemistry, microbiology, life science, or a related discipline.
- Extensive experience in synthetic biology and molecular biology techniques, particularly molecular cloning.
- Experience in creating DNA/peptide libraries (e.g., by error-prone PCR).
- Knowledge and hands-on experience with antimicrobial peptides and peptide-based natural products (e.g., RiPPs) is essential.
- Expertise in high-throughput screening assays is advantageous.
- Familiarity with automated liquid handling systems is a plus.
- Excellent communication skills and problem-solving abilities for interdisciplinary collaboration.
Job Description:
The successful candidate will be responsible for engineering existing biosynthetic pathways for maximum specificity and activity against microbial human pathogens. Additionally, they will produce libraries of peptide-based natural products through molecular cloning techniques and screen these compounds to evaluate their antimicrobial activity using a state-of-the-art robotic platform (JenXplor). The role involves significant data processing, analysis, and participation in scientific discussions, contributing to both fundamental and applied research strategies.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should send complete applications in English via the Leibniz-HKI online application system, including:
- A cover letter
- CV with a complete list of publications
- A brief statement of research experiences
- Addresses of two possible referees
Last Date to Apply:
August 22, 2025 (Note: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis).
