PhD Candidate (m/f/d) – Host Microbiome and Metabolic Activity

The Research Center Borstel (RCB) is a globally recognized Lung Center affiliated with the Leibniz Association. Funded by the Federal Government and the State of Schleswig-Holstein, our primary focus is on basic and translational research in the realm of respiratory diseases. With well-equipped laboratories and research facilities, we enjoy strong academic affiliations with nearby universities (Lübeck, Kiel) and clinical ties with the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein. Our mission revolves around enhancing existing methodologies for diagnosing, preventing, and treating lung disorders, as well as pioneering novel therapeutic strategies.

The symbiotic relationship between the host microbiome and metabolic activities is pivotal for maintaining respiratory health. Microbial communities within the host and their metabolites have emerged as a novel avenue for therapeutic exploration. The utilization of chemically and functionally defined microbial metabolic products presents a promising approach to clinical interventions.

Job Description:

• Planning, executing, and analyzing experiments aimed at isolating (HPLC, LC/MS) and structurally characterizing bacterial metabolites sourced from candidate bacteria.
• Designing, implementing, and evaluating in vitro cell culture experiments to conduct functional analyses of candidate metabolites.
• Assessing data, preparing presentations, compiling findings, contributing to publications, and supporting ongoing projects.
• Completing data components required for a doctoral thesis, showcasing outcomes at national and international conferences.

Your Qualifications:

• MSc. in natural sciences (chemistry, biochemistry, biology, or equivalent).
• Experience with mass spectrometry and chromatography is advantageous.
• Willingness to engage in in vitro experiments involving cell cultures and mouse primary cells.
• Demonstrated motivation, flexibility, a strong inclination for interdisciplinary collaboration, and a cooperative team spirit.
• Exceptional command of both written and spoken English.

Our Offering:

• Join a distinguished research center in close proximity to Hamburg.
• Become part of a productive and dynamic team.
• Experience a supportive and personal atmosphere.
• Compensation following TVöD-VKA standards, inclusive of customary public sector benefits.
• Family-friendly work conditions and adaptable working hours.
• Access to childcare facilities and workplace health promotion initiatives.

The FZB holds the “berufundfamilie” audit certification, demonstrating our commitment to balancing career and family needs. We actively encourage applications from underrepresented genders, while maintaining a focus on professional and personal qualifications. Similarly qualified individuals with disabilities will receive preferential consideration. For more information on our certifications, please refer to our homepage.

For any inquiries, feel free to contact Dr. Katarzyna Duda at 0049 4537 188 2490 or via email kduda(at)fz-borstel.de. To apply, submit your application with standard documents (excluding a photo) exclusively via email by September 15, 2023, through our website. Application Link.

Please note: Due to potential limitations in email formatting, we recommend visiting the provided application link for the most accurate and comprehensive information.