Research Assistant (PhD Candidate) in Molecular physiology of photosynthesis (m/f/x)

Research Assistant (PhD Candidate) in Molecular physiology of photosynthesis (m/f/x)

Institution: Faculty of Biology - Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants

Remuneration group: TV-L E13

Full-time / Part-time: Part-time (65%)

Start date: (limited to October 2029)

About us

In AG Ferrari we study photosynthetic adaptations that allow plants to thrive under stress, with a special focus on non-model plant species. Facultative plants that combine more than one photosynthetic type within a single organism (e.g., C3-CAM, C4-CAM plants, or C3-C4 intermediates) are extremely fast-responding and resilient. Our goal is to understand the molecular mechanisms contributing to their adaptability, signalling, biochemical adjustments, and triggers. We employ physiological, biochemical, and molecular approaches to investigate transcriptional, translational and post‑translational levels of regulation involved in photosynthetic changes.

We are looking for you:

Research tasks

• Develop and conduct research on the regulation of C4‑CAM photosynthetic switch in Portulaca species, with a special focus on the role of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase kinase in regulating this system
• Perform experiments and generate data relevant to the project
• Manage and analyse research data, publish research findings in peer‑reviewed scientific journals, present research results at inter‑ and national conferences
• Supervise students at the Bachelor‑ and Master‑level
• Contribute to teaching activities

Qualifications

• You have completed (or are close to completing) a Master’s degree in Plant Science, Plant Biotechnology, Plant Biochemistry or a related field of study.
• You are enthusiastic for basic research and have a strong interest in plant physiology and photosynthesis.
• You have excellent English language skills (fluent). German skills are a plus.
• Previous wet‑lab experience (gas exchange, biochemical assays such as enzyme activity and metabolite quantification, molecular assays involving nucleic acid extraction, qRT‑PCR) and bioinformatic skills (e.g., R or python programming for statistical and RNA‑Seq analysis, proteomics) are desirable.
• You are a team player, also reliable, communicative and flexible.
• An independent and creative way of working with a high level of commitment is also desirable.

We work closely with AG Kadereit and offer a stimulating research environment in a young and highly motivated, international team.

Your workplace is located at the side of the stunning Botanical Garden Munich‑Nymphenburg and offers office, laboratories, experimental greenhouse, and research facilities. The location is: Institute of Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants, LMU Munich (Menzinger Str. 67, 80638, Munich).

The position is remunerated according to the salary group TV-L E13 (65%) and is limited to October 2029.

People with disabilities who are equally qualified as other applicants will receive preferential treatment.