PhD student or Postdoc (f/m/d) | Understanding and manipulating ubiquitin ligase specificities

At the Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, we bridge the gap between basic research and translational, preclinical approaches. Here, researchers from the fields of biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine collaborate across disciplines, supported by high-performance service facilities and a modern research infrastructure. As the largest institute of the Max Planck Society with around 1,000 employees from over 66 nations, we offer an inspiring, international working environment with exceptional scientific breadth.

Position Overview

The research group Ubiquitin Signaling Specificity (Dr. Sonja Lorenz) invites applications for the position of PhD student or Postdoc (f/m/d).

Key Research Focus

Understanding and manipulating ubiquitin ligase specificities. The laboratory aims to understand how the posttranslational modifier ubiquitin coordinates eukaryotic physiology, focusing on the action of ubiquitin ligases that recruit specific substrates for ubiquitination and determine the ubiquitin signals they are decorated with.

Research directions include:

• Mechanism, specificity, and consequences of cellular small‑molecule ubiquitination, building on our recent discovery that drug‑like compounds are selectively ubiquitinated by human HUWE1.
• Structural mechanism and biological functions of TKUL, a dual functional kinase‑ligase identified as a novel virulence factor in Leishmania.
• Structural analyses of localization‑dependent ubiquitination, combining cell‑based analyses with cryo‑EM/ cryo‑ET.

Qualifications

PhD candidates should hold or soon expect a MSc or equivalent degree in the life sciences. Initial experience in one or more of the following techniques is desired: protein biochemistry, mammalian cell biology, or any aspect of structural biology.

Postdoc candidates should hold or soon expect a PhD or equivalent degree in the life sciences. A strong published track record in one of the following techniques is desired: cryo‑EM, cryo‑ET, or mammalian cell biology with high‑resolution imaging.

Successful candidates for either position should be curiosity‑driven, creative, passionate about science, self‑motivated, independent, and able to communicate well within an international, multidisciplinary team.

Benefits

• A stimulating and collaborative international research environment.
• Professional development opportunities, skills training, and the Max Planck Society’s online training academy.
• Support for balancing work and family life, including on‑campus childcare.
• Corporate health management, fitness and sports programs.
• On‑site cafeteria offering warm meals and a salad bar.
• Sustainability initiatives and a nature‑oriented campus environment, including a biotope.

Additional Information

Our group has access to leading‑edge infrastructure in all areas of cell and structural biology, including cryo‑EM and super‑resolution imaging. We use English as a working language; knowledge of German is not required.

Positions will be filled as soon as possible, with flexible start dates. PhD students will be funded for three years (extendable) and may enroll in joint PhD programs with the University of Göttingen. Postdoc positions are initially funded for two years with the possibility of extension. Compensation is based on the TVöD Bund pay scale, with public sector social benefits.

We are committed to a diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities and aim to increase the number of employees with disabilities. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Legal: Equal opportunity employer. Women, people with disabilities, ethnic minority groups, and LGBT individuals are encouraged to apply.

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