Doctoral Researcher Position in RNA: The Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), located in Würzburg, Germany, is inviting applications for a Doctoral Researcher position in the group Molecular Principles of RNA Phages, led by Jun. Prof. Jens Hör. The research focuses on uncovering how RNA phage infections remodel host cellular protein complexes, using global biochemical and high-throughput methods. This position offers a stimulating research environment, world-class infrastructure, and opportunities for professional growth within an international scientific community.
Doctoral Researcher Position in RNA Phage Infection at Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Germany
Summary Table
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | Doctoral Researcher (PhD Position) |
| Research Area | Molecular Biology, RNA Phage Infection, Protein Complex Remodeling |
| Institute | Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI) |
| Affiliation | Braunschweig Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) & Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU) |
| Location | Würzburg, Germany |
| Starting Date | February 1, 2026 |
| Contract Duration | 3 years |
| Working Hours | 19.5 hours per week (65% E 13 TVöD Bund) |
| Salary | According to E 13 TVöD Bund (65%) |
| Application Deadline | November 13, 2025 |
| Contact Person | Jun. Prof. Jens Hör — 📧 jens.hoer@helmholtzhiri.de |
| Reference Number | 124/2025 |
Designation
Doctoral Researcher (PhD Position)
Project Title: “Remodeling of protein complexes during RNA phage infection”
Research Area
- RNA phage biology
- Molecular and cellular infection mechanisms
- Protein complex remodeling
- Host-pathogen interactions
- Biochemical and high-throughput methods
Location
Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI)
Würzburg Medical Campus, Germany
(A site of the Braunschweig Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) in cooperation with Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg)
Eligibility / Qualification
Required Qualifications:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or related field.
- Prior experience in phage biology, molecular biology, microbiology, and/or biochemistry.
- Strong motivation, independence, and teamwork abilities in an international environment.
- Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
Job Description / Responsibilities
The selected doctoral researcher will:
- Employ global biochemical and high-throughput techniques to study RNA phage-induced remodeling of host protein complexes.
- Investigate the molecular mechanisms and biological consequences of RNA phage infections.
- Collaborate closely with team members within the Molecular Principles of RNA Phages group.
- Contribute to HIRI’s broader mission of advancing RNA-based infection biology and developing innovative therapeutic strategies.
Benefits and Offerings
HIRI provides:
- A dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment at the forefront of RNA and infection research.
- State-of-the-art laboratories and technologies.
- Flexible working hours, part-time models, and home-office options.
- Supportive and inclusive workplace promoting equal opportunities and diversity.
- Training and professional development programs through the DO IT PhD initiative and Welcome Office.
- Family-friendly policies and childcare support.
- Public service benefits and optional employer subsidy for job ticket.
How to Apply
Applicants should prepare and submit:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certificates and transcripts
- Employment references
- (Optional) Work samples or reference projects
📌 Application Reference: Job announcement no. 124/2025
📧 Email Submission: Applications should be submitted as a single PDF file to the Human Resources Department, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research GmbH
📍 Postal Address:
Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research GmbH
Human Resources Department
Inhoffenstr. 7, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany
Please confirm that you have read and agree to the HIRI Privacy Policy in your application. Applications without this confirmation will not be processed.
Last Date to Apply
🗓 November 13, 2025
For additional information, visit the official website:
🌐 www.helmholtz-hiri.de
Contact:
Jun. Prof. Jens Hör
📞 +49 931-31-80042
📧 jens.hoer@helmholtzhiri.de
