Summary
Forschungszentrum Jülich is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position within the Synthetic Phage Biology (SynPhage) research group at the Institute of Bio- and Geosciences – Biotechnology (IBG-1). The doctoral project explores the evolutionary arms race between bacteria and bacteriophages, focusing on identifying shared antiphage defense components (sensors, regulators, signal transducers, or effectors) and repurposing them into novel synthetic biology tools, biosensors, and antimicrobials.
PhD Position – Biology and Application of Bacterial Antiphage Defenses
Overview
| Attribute | Details |
| Position / Designation | Doctoral Researcher / PhD Student |
| Institute / Department | Institute of Bio- and Geosciences – Biotechnology (IBG-1), SynPhage Group |
| Host Institution | Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH (Member of the Helmholtz Association) |
| Location | Jülich, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany |
| Remuneration / Funding | Public Sector Pay Scale: TVöD-Bund Pay Group 13 (75%) + 75% annual bonus |
| Contract Start Date | To the next possible date |
| Application Deadline | September 27, 2026 |
| Reference / Index No. | 2026D-0682 |
Designation
Doctoral Researcher (PhD Candidate)
Research Area
- Field: Microbiology, Synthetic Biology, Molecular Biology & Biochemistry
- Focus Topics: Phage biology, bacterial antiphage defense systems, CRISPR-Cas, molecular evolution, biosensors, and antimicrobial technologies.
Location
Jülich, Germany (Forschungszentrum Jülich campus)
Eligibility / Qualification
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Degree: Master’s degree (MSc) or equivalent in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Biotechnology, or a related life sciences discipline.
- Technical Skills: Proven wet-lab experimental experience. Computational/bioinformatics skills are considered an asset.
- Interests & Mindset: Strong passion for phage biology, bacterial defenses, or synthetic biology, combined with a rigorous, independent, and collaborative research attitude.
- Language Proficiency: Strong command of written and spoken English (at least B2 level according to the CEFR standard).
Scholarship & Position Description
- Project Scope: You will investigate shared components functioning across varied defense mechanisms in native and engineered contexts at physiological and mechanistic levels, translating biological discoveries into synthetic biology applications.
- Key Tasks:
- Take increasing ownership of an ambitious, cutting-edge research project.
- Share findings via scientific meetings, seminars, international conferences, and peer-reviewed journals.
- Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and external research partners.
- Financial & Professional Benefits:
- Salary: Employment contract governed by the German collective agreement for public services (TVöD-Bund, EG 13, 75%), including an annual special payment (75% of monthly salary) and capital-forming benefits.
- Leave: 30 days of paid annual vacation.
- Doctoral Support & Training: Structured qualification via the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors (JuDocS).
- Workplace Perks: State-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure, sports/health programs (running clubs, yoga, beach volleyball), on-site medical and counseling support, and relocation assistance through the International Advisory Service.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically via the official Forschungszentrum Jülich recruiting system:
- Prepare your application documents (CV, academic transcripts, cover/motivation letter, and reference contacts).
- Submit your dossier through the Forschungszentrum Jülich Online Application Portal.
- For inquiries regarding the position or reference code 2026D-0682, contact:
karriere@fz-juelich.de.
Last Date for Apply
September 27, 2026
