The research groups of Prof. Dr. Michael Kolbe and Prof. Dr. Jörg Labahn at the Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB) in Hamburg (Germany) are offering two

PhD positions: “Understanding Pseudomonas aeruginosa pathogenicity using structural biology tools”

Project description: The candidates 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 two positions are 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.

Qualifications: Master 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

We offer: An exciting project in which we will aim to identify novel target proteins to combat nosocomial infections.A stimulating multidisciplinary research environment at the recently established Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB) on the DESY campus in Hamburg. The possibility to participate in international workshops and conferences.

Equal Opportunities are part of our personnel policy – qualified women are especially invited to apply. With equal professional qualification, severely disabled persons will be prioritized. We encourage asylum-seeking, refugee scientists and researches with an immigrant background to apply for this vacancy.

Starting date: November 2018- Initial contract for 3 years. Continued funding is dependent on the project demands and positive evaluation

Probation period: 6 months

For questions regarding the PhD project, please contact Prof. Dr. Michael Kolbe via e-mail michael.kolbe@helmholtz-hzi.de or phone +49-40-8998-87550 & Prof. Dr. Jörg Labahn by email joerg.labahn@cssb-hamburg.de or at +49-40-8998-87540.

Further information about the HZI institute and the research group of Prof. Dr. Michael Kolbe can be found on our website: www.cssb-hamburg.de/research/michael_kolbe/index_eng.html. Information about the FZJ center and the research group of Prof. Dr. Jörg Labahn can be found on the website: www.cssb-hamburg.de/research/joerg_labahn/index_eng.html.