Postdoctoral Position in “Bacterial Immunity”: The Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position in the group Molecular Principles of RNA Phages, led by Jun. Prof. Jens Hör. The project focuses on exploring bacterial immunity mechanisms against RNA phages — a rapidly emerging area that bridges microbiology, molecular biology, and RNA research. The successful candidate will develop and apply global approaches to identify and characterize new bacterial defense systems.
Postdoctoral Position in “Bacterial Immunity Against RNA Phages” at Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Germany
This position offers an exceptional opportunity to work at the intersection of RNA biology and infection research in a state-of-the-art environment, with flexible working conditions, professional development programs, and international collaboration.
Summary Table
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Postdoctoral Position: Bacterial Immunity Against RNA Phages |
| Job Announcement No. | 120/2025 |
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/d) |
| Research Area | RNA Phage Biology, Bacterial Defense Systems, Molecular Biology, Infection Biology |
| Institute | Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI) |
| Affiliation | Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) & Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU) |
| Location | Würzburg, Germany |
| Starting Date | February 1, 2026 |
| Contract Duration | Initially 2 years (extension possible) |
| Working Time | 39 hours per week |
| Salary | E13 TVöD Bund |
| Application Deadline | November 13, 2025 |
| Contact | Jun. Prof. Jens Hör (+49 931-31-80042, jens.hoer@helmholtz-hiri.de) |
| Website | www.helmholtz-hiri.de |
Designation:
Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/d)
Molecular Principles of RNA Phages Group
Supervisor: Jun. Prof. Jens Hör
Research Area:
- RNA phage biology and molecular mechanisms of infection
- Bacterial defense systems against RNA phages
- RNA-based immune mechanisms and host-pathogen interactions
- Mechanistic cell biology and molecular microbiology
Location:
Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI)
Located on the Würzburg Medical Campus, in cooperation with Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany.
Eligibility / Qualification:
Essential Requirements:
- Ph.D. in Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related field
- Strong publication record commensurate with career stage
- Expertise in phage biology, molecular biology, microbiology, and/or biochemistry
- Experience in elucidating mechanistic cellular processes
- Proficiency in microorganism culture and genomics
- Independent, motivated, and collaborative research approach
- Excellent written and spoken English communication skills
Job Description:
The successful candidate will:
- Develop a global, unbiased approach to identify new bacterial defense systems against RNA phages
- Elucidate molecular mechanisms of bacterial immunity
- Write scientific publications and supervise junior researchers
- Plan and implement quality controls and methodological developments
- Contribute to collaborative and interdisciplinary projects within HIRI
The Institute Offers:
- State-of-the-art infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies
- Flexible working hours, part-time models, and home office options
- Professional development and continuous training opportunities
- Family-friendly environment with childcare support
- Inclusive and diverse workplace with equal opportunities
- Additional public service benefits and employer subsidy for job tickets
How to Apply:
Applicants must submit the following documents in a single PDF file:
- Cover letter (mentioning Job Reference No. 120/2025)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- Employment references and (if available) work samples
Application Submission:
Send your complete application to:
Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research GmbH
Human Resources Department
Inhoffenstr. 7, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany
or by email (preferred) — include all documents as one PDF file.
📌 Note: Include confirmation that you have read and agree to HIRI’s privacy policy. Applications without this confirmation cannot be processed.
Last Date to Apply:
🗓 November 13, 2025
