Postdoctoral Researchers and PhD Students: The Etzkorn Lab at the University of Düsseldorf is seeking highly motivated postdoctoral researchers and PhD students to join an innovative research project focused on the development of DNA-enzyme technology for therapeutic applications. The project aims to overcome the current limitations in cellular activity to expand the use of DNA enzymes as biocatalysts capable of eliminating target RNA sequences. This research has the potential for significant advances in biotechnology and medicine. The positions are fully funded with a duration of 1-3 years, starting in January 2026 or later.
Postdoctoral Researchers and PhD Students for DNA-Enzyme Technology Research
Summary Table:
| Position | Postdoctoral Researchers (7 positions) / PhD Students (1-2 positions) |
|---|---|
| Research Areas | Area 1: Advanced Mechanistic Understanding and Development Area 2: Pre-Clinical Development Area 3: Formulation and Delivery |
| Location | University of Düsseldorf, Germany |
| Eligibility/Qualification | PhD in relevant field for postdocs; Master’s in relevant field for PhD students Experience in structural biology, cell biology, biochemistry, drug development, NMR, and nucleic acid delivery systems |
| Duration | 1-3 years, with the possibility of extension |
| Starting Date | January 2026 or later |
| Salary | Fully funded |
Designation:
- Postdoctoral Researchers: 7 positions
- PhD Students: 1-2 positions
Research Area:
- Area 1: Advanced mechanistic understanding and development of DNA-enzyme technology, focusing on NMR and biophysics.
- Area 2: Pre-clinical development, focusing on biochemistry and cell biology.
- Area 3: Formulation and delivery of DNA-enzyme technology, particularly LNP and other nucleic acid delivery systems.
Location:
University of Düsseldorf, Germany
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Postdoctoral Researchers:
- PhD in a relevant field (e.g., Structural Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or Drug Development).
- Expertise in one of the following:
- Area 1: NMR and Biophysics.
- Area 2: Biochemistry and Cell Biology.
- Area 3: LNP and/or other nucleic acid delivery systems.
- PhD Students:
- Master’s degree in a relevant field.
- Strong interest in structural biology, cell biology, or drug development.
Job Description:
The Etzkorn Lab is seeking postdoctoral researchers and PhD students to contribute to the development of DNA-enzyme technology for clinical applications. The research aims to harness DNA enzymes as high-precision biocatalysts capable of eliminating virtually any target RNA sequence, overcoming current limitations in cellular activity.
- Postdoctoral Researchers:
You will be expected to lead research in one of the three focus areas:- Mechanistic Development: Using techniques like NMR to develop a deeper understanding of DNA-enzyme interactions.
- Pre-clinical Development: Focusing on biochemistry and cell biology to assess the feasibility of therapeutic applications.
- Formulation and Delivery: Working on LNP and nucleic acid delivery systems to optimize the efficiency of DNA-enzyme technology in clinical settings.
- PhD Students:
You will work closely with senior researchers to contribute to the development of the DNA-enzyme technology platform, gaining hands-on experience in structural biology, cell biology, or drug development.
The positions are available within a dynamic and collaborative research environment at the University of Düsseldorf, offering access to the Biomolecular NMR Center Düsseldorf/Jülich with state-of-the-art biophysical instrumentation.
How to Apply:
Applicants should submit the following documents by email to Manuel Etzkorn (manuel.etzkorn@hhu.de):
- A cover letter detailing your previous research experience and motivation for applying.
- A statement indicating the focus area you are applying for and how your previous experience aligns with it.
- Your CV.
- Contact information for at least two reference persons (typically including your Master’s/PhD supervisor).
Please ensure attachments are no larger than 4 MB. If larger files are needed, kindly share a cloud storage link.
For further information, please visit the lab’s homepage: www.etzkornlab.de.
Last Date to Apply:
- Applications are open until the positions are filled. Early application is encouraged.
Additional Information:
The positions will be fully funded for 1 to 3 years, with the possibility of extension. The starting date will be January 2026 or later. The Etzkorn Lab is based in Düsseldorf, a vibrant city renowned for its high quality of life, rich cultural offerings, and scenic location along the River Rhein.
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in DNA-enzyme technology with significant potential for therapeutic applications.
