PhD positions
PhD position in the field of bacterial cell biology and microbial multicellularity
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin is one of the German universities awarded the status of University of Excellence. Located at the Institute of Biology, our research group investigates the molecular mechanisms governing bacterial cell biology and the spatial organization of multicellular biofilms.
This project, funded under the DFG Priority Programme SPP 2389 “Emergent Functions of Bacterial Multicellularity”, investigates how conjugation via F-pili influences the organization and function of bacterial biofilms. Using genetics, microfluidics, high-resolution imaging, and quantitative image analysis, we aim to understand how conjugation contributes to multicellular behavior in bacterial communities.
Your responsibilities
- scientific services in research within the DFG-funded SPP 2389 project, in particular in the field of bacterial cell biology, biofilm development, and microbial multicellularity
- microbiological laboratory work with a focus on bacterial genetics, biofilm assays, and conjugation-based model systems
- application of advanced microscopy techniques, including high-resolution 3D time-lapse imaging
- development and application of microfluidic and image-based approaches to study spatial and temporal dynamics in bacterial communities
- quantitative analysis of biofilm architecture, conjugation dynamics, and emergent collective traits
- writing of scientific publications
- presentation of results at scientific meetings and conferences
- opportunity for own scientific qualification (doctorate)
What you bring to the table
- completed scientific university degree in biology, microbiology, biophysics or a related field
- experience in at least two of the following fields is required: microbiology, bacterial genetics, microscopy, biofilm research, microfluidics, quantitative image analysis
- experience with scripting or data analysis tools (e.g. Python, MATLAB, or similar) is an advantage
- strong interest in bacterial multicellularity, biofilm organization, and host-independent microbial community behavior
- ability to work independently and as part of an international, interdisciplinary team
- creative thinking and enthusiasm for developing new experimental and analytical approaches
- very good command of written and spoken English (at least C1)
Further information about the project: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.11.022 /
10.1073/pnas.2310842120
Please send your application (including a cover letter, CV, research statement including summaries of past and planned projects, max. 3 pages, list of publications, relevant certificates, and at least 2 reference letters) until June 3, 2026, referencing the job id DR/093/26 to Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Biology, Molecular Microbiology, Prof. Dr. Marc Erhardt in electronic form as a single PDF file to jobs.molmicro@hu-berlin.de.
The position is scheduled to be filled on August 1, 2026.