The University of Marburg, Department of Biology, invites applications for a Research Assistant (Postdoc) position within the research group on Developmental Genetics and Cell Biology of Animals led by Prof. Dr. Christian Helker. This 3-year full-time opportunity provides an outstanding environment for advanced research in biosensors and GPCR signaling dynamics.
Overview & Key Details
Here is a summary of the position details:
| Designation | Research Assistant (Postdoc) |
| Department / Group | Department of Biology / Developmental Genetics and Cell Biology of Animals |
| Research Area | Life Sciences, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, GPCR Signaling, Biosensors |
| Institution | Philipps-Universität Marburg |
| Location | Marburg, Hesse, Germany |
| Employment Type / Duration | Full-time, 3-year fixed-term contract (TV-H E 13) |
| Registration Number | fb17-0029-wmz-2026 |
| Application Deadline | November 22, 2026 |
Position & Project Description
The appointed Postdoctoral Researcher will engage in cutting-edge scientific tasks focused on understanding conformational dynamics of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Key responsibilities include:
- Design and cloning of optical biosensors to measure conformational dynamics of GPCRs.
- Validation of optical biosensors in living cells.
- Application of optical biosensors to characterize GPCR responses to ligand and mechanical stimuli.
- Design and execution of pharmacological and cell biological assays in microtiter plates (≥ 96-well format).
- Analysis and visualization of large pharmacological datasets.
- Structural modeling of GPCR–ligand interactions.
The position is established under the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG) and is designed to provide substantial opportunities for independent scientific research and personal qualification.
Eligibility & Qualification Criteria
Applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
- MSc degree or equivalent, alongside a completed Ph.D. in the life sciences (or evidence of near completion of doctoral studies).
- Extensive experience in molecular biology techniques required for cloning new fusion proteins.
- Demonstrated experience in conducting pharmacological assays in living cells using microtiter plate formats (≥ 96-well).
- Previous scientific work directly involving GPCR, G protein, GRK, or arrestin-related research topics.
- Desirable: Prior experience in designing and validating new biosensors in living cells.
- Proficiency and very good communication skills in English.
Benefits and Offerings
- Equal pay according to the Hesse Collective Agreement (TV-H E 13).
- Free public transport ticket covering the state of Hesse (LandesTicket).
- Career development programs, mentoring, coaching, and training dedicated to postdoctoral researchers.
- A collaborative, innovative, and family-friendly working environment with flexible work options.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application online through the official University of Marburg job portal. Ensure all relevant documents (CV, certificates, research summary, and references) are attached before the deadline.
For inquiries regarding the position, please contact:
Lilli Backhaus
Phone: +49 6421-28 26510
Email: backhaul@staff.uni-marburg.de
Last Date to Apply
Applications must be submitted by November 22, 2026.
