Postdoctoral researcher in antibiotic research (m/f/x), 39.83 hours/week, 2 years

Stellenbeschreibung:

Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology: Chair of Applied Microbiology

In order to fill a fixed‑term position in full‑time (39.83 hours/week = 100%) at the earliest possible date we are looking for a Postdoctoral researcher in antibiotic research (m/f/x).

Postdoctoral researcher in antibiotic research (m/f/x), 39.83 hours/week, 2 years

The research interests at the Chair of Applied Microbiology at the Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology focus on the discovery and biological characterization of antibiotics. We seek to fill a doctoral position to address the “Mass spectrometry‑assisted discovery and biological characterization of novel antibacterial agents”.

The goal of the postdoctoral research project will be the identification and characterization of novel antibiotics using mass‑spectrometry‑based methods. A special emphasis will be on the determination of cellular antibiotic concentrations to elucidate uptake and retention, and on the monitoring of target engagement. The postdoctoral researcher will have responsibility for mass spectrometry instrumentation and in that capacity collaborate closely with team members.

Scope: full‑time
Duration: fixed‑term, 2 years
Start: at the earliest possible date
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Your tasks:

Methods will focus on HPLC‑coupled high‑resolution mass spectrometry to identify novel natural products, to support structure elucidation, to quantify cellular antibiotic levels, and to establish and perform assays for in‑cellulo mechanism of action verification. In addition to applying established methods and developing novel assays, the successful candidate will be responsible for mass spectrometry instrumentation and will train staff and students.

Your profile:

The successful candidate will have earned a Master’s degree in natural sciences or life sciences such as Microbiology, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biotechnology or related subject area. The candidate will hold a PhD or equivalent qualification.

The candidate will have solid knowledge of chromatography and mass spectrometry and at least three years of hands‑on experience in operating mass spectrometers to analyze metabolites and/or proteins in biological samples. A solid knowledge in microbiology, microbial physiology, or chemical biology is a plus. Experience in natural product research and antibiotic research will be of benefit, as will be prior responsibility for instrumentation.

Excellent computer skills, excellent English skills, excellent teamwork and communication are expected.

It is expected that the candidate will present research results at national and international scientific meetings and contribute to publication in international peer‑reviewed journals.

We offer:

Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence, Employment at one of the largest universities in Germany within the University Alliance Ruhr, a qualified onboarding and induction process, collaboration in a committed and appreciative team, a varied sports program with around 100 sport disciplines and the university's own gym.

Further information:

The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV‑L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV‑L.

Further information can be found at (in German).

Please send job applications consisting of CV, statement of motivation, certificates, transcripts of records, and – if available – letters of recommendation. Only complete applications will be considered.

RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees. German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF).

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. We explicitly encourage applications from women and from individuals with disabilities.