PhD Student (f/m/x): The Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences in Göttingen, Germany, is a leading international research institute of exceptional scientific breadth. With more than 40 research groups and about 1,000 employees from over 50 nations, it is the largest institute of the Max-Planck-Society.
The research group Biochemistry of Signal Dynamics (Dr. Alex Faesen) invites applications for a position as
PhD Student (f/m/x)
Our laboratory aims to reconstitute the initiation of autophagy using purified proteins. Autophagy is a process of regulated degradation that has been proven to play a wide range of roles in cellular housekeeping, including removal of damaged or unneeded organelles, intracellular pathogens, and protein aggregates. It is an essential biological pathway that promotes organismal health, longevity, and helps combat cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
This project focuses on the reconstitution and structural-functional characterization of newly identified and purified macromolecular super-complexes. In particular, we aim to understand the role of protein metamorphosis in the initiation of autophagy (see Nguyen, Lugarini et al (Mol Cell, 2023) for details). This project combines a large variety of biochemical and cell biological techniques with X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy, and will be tailored to the particular interests of the successful candidate.
Eligibility/Qualification: Candidates should hold/soon expect an MSc or equivalent degree in a relevant area of the life sciences and have initial experience in protein biochemistry or structural biology. Candidates should be passionate about science, curiosity-driven, self-motivated, and eager to work in an international and multi-disciplinary team. Furthermore, the PhD student will collaborate with other national and international research groups. PhD students are encouraged to attend international workshops and meetings once a year.
Job Description: The PhD student will engage in cutting-edge research in an inspiring, world-class environment. The role involves conducting experiments, contributing to the understanding of autophagy initiation, collaborating with a diverse team, and participating in professional training and development opportunities. The candidate will have access to advanced infrastructure and techniques including cryo-EM and X-ray crystallography.
How to Apply: Interested candidates are invited to submit their application including a cover letter (explaining background and motivation), CV, academic transcripts, publication list, and the contact addresses of two references preferably as a single PDF file to the email address below. Review of applications will begin immediately. If the vacancy is filled, it will be closed prematurely. The desired starting date is October 2023, but can be discussed in consultation.
Last Date for Apply: Until position filled
Application Email: ausschreibung42-23@mpinat.mpg.de
Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences Research Group “Biochemistry of Signal Dynamics” Herrn Dr. Alex Faesen Am Fassberg 11 37077 Göttingen Germany
We offer:
- Competitive research in an inspiring, world-class environment
- Professional training, networking, and career-development opportunities; free language courses
- On-site health management: free fitness and yoga room, sports groups, beach volleyball league, and courses for a “moving lunch break”
- Opportunities to balance work and family life, including an on-campus kindergarten and vacation care
- Spacious on-site cafeteria with diverse meals; espresso bar
- Initiatives for sustainability and a green environment with an on-site biotope
About us: Based at one of Germany’s premier research campuses, our research group has access to leading-edge infrastructure in all areas of cell and structural biology, including cryo-EM. We are an international team, supported by the Max Planck Society and the German Research Foundation. Our working language is English; knowledge of German is not required.
Position details: The positions should be filled as soon as possible; the exact start date is flexible. PhD students will be funded for three years (with a possibility of extension) and have the opportunity to enroll in one of several PhD programs in collaboration with the University of Göttingen. Payment and benefits are based on the TVöD (wage agreement for public service personnel) guidelines.
The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and encourages applications from such qualified individuals. The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.
The historic city of Göttingen, located in the center of Germany, offers great outdoors and cultural opportunities, a vibrant student scene, and an impressive scientific heritage.
