Summary
The Cluster of Excellence GreenRobust and the Department of Plant Biochemistry at the Center for Plant Molecular Biology (ZMBP), University of Tübingen, invite applications for a PhD position (m/f/d, E13 TV-L, 65%) in the field of plant immune receptor evolution. As part of the collaborative REVALUTION project, the candidate will investigate how genome evolution drives the diversification of plant immune receptors using cutting-edge molecular biology, AI-guided structural modelling, and evolutionary genomics.
Designation
PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d)
Key Details Table
| Attribute | Details |
| Position | PhD Student / Academic Research Assistant (m/f/d) |
| Institution | University of Tübingen (Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen) |
| Department / Center | Center for Plant Molecular Biology (ZMBP), Dept. of Plant Biochemistry |
| Project / Cluster | Cluster of Excellence GreenRobust (Project: REVALUTION) |
| Remuneration / Pay Scale | TV-L E13 (65%) |
| Duration | 3 years (with the possibility of extension) |
| Starting Date | January 2027 |
| Location | Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany |
| Application Deadline | October 9, 2026 |
Research Area
- Field: Plant Biochemistry, Molecular Plant Biology, Evolutionary Genomics, Structural Biology
- Project Scope: The REVALUTION project aims to re-evaluate ambiguous ligand–receptor interactions within an evolutionary framework. Working closely with the Koch/Walden group at COS Heidelberg, the project explores how genome evolution drives receptor diversification (specifically focusing on pattern recognition receptors like Arabidopsis RLP30 and Nicotiana RE02) to discover novel Brassica immune receptors and unravel molecular mechanisms governing ligand recognition and downstream signalling.
Location
- City / Country: Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
- Facility: Center for Plant Molecular Biology (ZMBP), University of Tübingen
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Academic Degree: An excellent Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Biochemistry, or a related life sciences discipline.
- Technical Experience: Practical laboratory experience in plant molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, and microscopy.
- Skills & Interests:
- Strong research interest in plant immunity, evolution, and receptor biochemistry.
- AI-guided structural modeling or computational interest is advantageous.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- High level of motivation, curiosity, and ability to work in an international collaborative environment.
Scholarship & Position Description
- Remuneration: Funded under the German public service collective wage agreement (TV-L E13 at 65%), including standard social security and health benefits.
- Work Environment:
- Joint supervision and integration into the research groups of Dr. Laura Medina-Puche and Dr. Andrea Gust.
- Full integration into the GreenRobust interdisciplinary research network.
- Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and high-end core facilities.
- Comprehensive scientific and professional development through mentoring programs and graduate academy career training.
- High quality of life in the historic, vibrant university town of Tübingen.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare their application as a single PDF file containing:
- A Cover Letter (outlining your motivation and suitability for the project).
- A Summary of previous research experience.
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Relevant Academic certificates & transcripts.
- Contact information of two academic referees.
Send your application via email to:
- Dr. Andrea Gust:
andrea.gust@zmbp.uni-tuebingen.deor - Dr. Laura Medina-Puche:
laura.medina-puche@zmbp.uni-tuebingen.de
Last Date for Apply
October 9, 2026
