The research group of Prof. Dr. Michael Kolbe at the Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB) in Hamburg (Germany) is offering a PhD position: Understanding Pseudomonas aeruginosa pathogenicity using structural biology tools.

TASKS
The candidate will investigate the structural determinants of novel pathogenicity factors in Pseudomonas aeruginosa using X-ray technologies, electron microscopy and microbial multi-omics data. The project will involve establishment of new research protocols, identification of novel virulence factors, resolution of 3D protein structures and large-scale data processing. The position is oriented towards talented students with background in biophysics and/or molecular microbiology, who are willing to work in the wet lab handling infectious agents. This work is a collaborative project between the groups of Prof. M. Kolbe from the Helmholtz Centre for Structural Infection (HZI) and Prof. J. Labahn from Jülich Research Center (FZJ) under the umbrella of the CSSB in Hamburg.

PREREQUISITE

• Master/Bachelor in Physics or Life Science (biophysics, molecular microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology or a related field) obtained with the grade of distinction
• interest in crystallography and microbiology is a prerequisite, background in structural biology and microbiology is an advantage
• strong analytical skills to solve complex project-related scientific problems
• excellent experimental and organizational skills
• a good command of the English language (written and spoken) is an asset
• ability to work independently and as part of an international team
• a strong desire to do research with high self-motivation and enthusiasm