PhD position in cell-free synthetic biology (m/f/d)

The Niederholtmeyer Lab for Synthetic Biology at TUM Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability invites applications for a PhD position in cell-free synthetic biology. We offer a project on feedback control of dynamic condensate assembly and disassembly. The Niederholtmeyer Lab is a synthetic biology research group at the TUM Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability. Our work centers on cell-free systems and the engineering of life-like compartments.

THE PROJECT

Biomolecular condensates are fascinating cellular structures that can rapidly assemble and disassemble – a property we want to harness to build self-regulating synthetic compartments. We are offering a PhD position focused on engineering feedback mechanisms that control condensate assembly and disassembly. The project combines cell-free expression, microfluidics, and fluorescence microscopy to build and characterize condensate systems that switch engineered functions on and off in response to their own assembly state. You will characterize the dynamics of condensate formation and design gene expression or enzyme activity switches triggered by condensate assembly. Based on this you will work toward achieving periodic, self-regulated condensate cycles.

YOUR PROFILE

• MSc degree in biochemistry, biophysics, molecular biology, synthetic biology, or a closely related field
• Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary, collaborative research at the interface of biophysics, molecular biology, and synthetic biology
• Prior experience with cell-free expression systems, microfluidics, molecular cloning, microscopy and quantitative analyses is a plus.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English

THE ENVIRONMENT AND THE POSITION

• Location: TUM Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability
• Position: TV-L E13 (65%), with the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree (PhD)
• Start date: from July 2026
• Research community: The position is embedded in the BioSysteM Cluster of Excellence, offering access to cutting-edge infrastructure, interdisciplinary collaborations, and an active PhD network spanning multiple institutions in the Munich area
• More information: , ,

APPLICATION

Please Submit Your Application As a Single PDF Including

• Motivation letter
• CV
• Academic transcripts
• Contact details for at least two references

Applications should be submitted until April 26, 2026 to:

Contact: Prof. Henrike Niederholtmeyer, Professorship for Synthetic Biology

TUM is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women are therefore particularly encouraged to apply. The position is suitable for disabled persons. Disabled applicants will be given preference in case of generally equivalent suitability, aptitude and professional performance.

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