Summary
The Wachter group at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) is seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher to investigate the regulation and functional impact of alternative RNA splicing in plants, with a focus on polypyrimidine tract‑binding proteins (PTBs) in Arabidopsis thaliana. The position combines molecular biology, RNA biochemistry, transcriptome-wide profiling and plant stress physiology to connect mechanistic splicing control to physiological traits such as ABA-dependent seed germination and drought tolerance.
Designation
Academic staff member (Postdoc)
Research Area
Plant RNA biology — alternative splicing regulation, PTB (polypyrimidine tract‑binding protein) function, transcriptome-wide analyses (splicing profiling, iCLIP, TRIBE), and plant stress physiology (drought, ABA responses).
Location
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU), Mainz, Rhineland‑Palatinate, Germany
Eligibility / Qualification
- Successful university degree in Biology or a related field
- Completed doctorate (PhD) in molecular plant biology, RNA biology or closely related discipline
- Experience with a broad range of molecular methods
- Experience in plant stress physiology is an advantage but not mandatory
- Teaching experience is advantageous but not required
- Very good English language skills (minimum B2); German skills are a plus
- Documented academic track record (publications, conference presentations, etc.)
- Strong communication and teamwork skills and enthusiasm for research
- Compliance with recruitment requirements under § 57 of the Hochschulgesetz of Rhineland‑Palatinate and public service law
Job Description
The postdoctoral researcher will join an international team investigating alternative splicing and its physiological consequences in plants. Main responsibilities include:
- Investigating PTB‑controlled splicing decisions in Arabidopsis thaliana using multidisciplinary approaches that integrate molecular biology, RNA biochemistry and plant stress physiology.
- Applying and further developing state‑of‑the‑art gene‑specific and genome‑wide RNA analysis techniques (including splicing profiling, iCLIP, TRIBE and related pipelines).
- Integrating and analyzing multi‑omics datasets to define PTB regulatory functions and link them to stress‑relevant phenotypes such as drought tolerance and ABA responses.
- Contributing to lab organisation and routine group tasks.
- Participating in teaching activities for Bachelor’s and Master’s students and supervising PhD students and other team members.
- Communicating results via manuscripts, reports and conference presentations.
The position is funded and equipped with access to core facilities and new research infrastructure. It is intended for academic qualification and independent contributions to teaching and research, serving as a pathway toward habilitation or an equivalent. The post is to be filled by 01 January 2027, is initially limited to three years, and is paid according to EG 13 TV‑L.
We Offer
- Secure and transparent salary according to the collective agreement of the federal states (TV‑L) including additional benefits such as an annual special payment and occupational pension
- Discounted Deutschlandticket for local public transport
- Flexible working hours, 30 days annual leave, and family‑friendly arrangements
- Access to a lively, multidisciplinary campus and diverse talent development opportunities
- Possibility to use the university sports facilities
Additional Notes on Equality & Employment
JGU is committed to diversity and welcomes qualified applications from people with diverse backgrounds. Female researchers are particularly encouraged to apply. Applicants with severe disabilities and those who are equally treated under Section 2 (3) SGB IX will receive preferential consideration if suitably qualified.
As this is a position in the civil service of Rhineland‑Palatinate, employment requires a guarantee to uphold the free democratic basic order as defined in the German Basic Law and the Constitution of Rhineland‑Palatinate.
How to Apply
Please submit a complete application including the following documents:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Certificates (with German recognition if applicable)
- References
- List of publications
Applications must be submitted online via the application portal. Click the Apply link below to begin your submission.
Last Date for Apply
05 November 2026 (listed in the original posting as 11/5/2026)
Apply Link
Apply now — Academic staff member (Postdoc): Plant RNA Biology (Wachter Group) at JGU Mainz
Contact & Further Information
For further information about the research group and projects, see the Wachter group website: https://mps-imp.biologie.uni-mainz.de/.
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz is one of Germany’s largest universities, located in the Rhine‑Main science region with a compact, campus‑based structure that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and an international academic culture.
