Researcher/PhD (m/f/x) for Medicinal Biophysics

Researcher/PhD (m/f/x) for Medicinal Biophysics

The Karges research group is engaged in a wide range of interdisciplinary projects at the interface of synthetic chemistry, biochemistry, biophysics, and translational medicine. Our research focuses on the design and synthesis of novel metal complexes, characterization of their photophysical properties, and exploration of their biological activity against target proteins and in cancerous cells, with a particular emphasis on medical applications. Candidates joining our team will contribute to innovative research at the forefront of medicinal chemistry and translational biophysics.

Job Details

• Scope: part‑time: 25.89 hours per week (65 %)
• Duration: fixed‑term, 36 months
• Start date: earliest possible or by August 01 / 2026
• Application deadline: May 11 / 2026

Your tasks

• Design and synthesize novel metal‑based conjugates tailored for selective binding to target proteins, using advanced synthetic methodologies and comprehensive analytical characterization.
• Perform detailed photophysical investigations, including absorption and emission studies and reactive oxygen species generation, to gain insight into photocatalytic properties and establish structure–property relationships.
• Conduct biochemical evaluation of target proteins, including expression, purification, and assessment of binding affinity.
• Plan and execute biological experiments in cancer cell models, including cytotoxicity assays, cellular uptake and localization studies, and mechanistic investigations of photoinduced cell death pathways.
• Integrate chemical, biochemical, and photophysical data to elucidate the mode of action of conjugates, focusing on selective protein targeting and photodynamic activity.
• Document, analyze, and present research findings through reports, publications, and scientific presentations.
• Collaborate within an interdisciplinary research environment at the interface of chemistry, biology, physics, and medicine.

Your profile

• Master of Science degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology or a related discipline.
• Experience with synthetic and spectroscopic methods.
• Experience with protein expression is an advantage.
• Experience with cell culture techniques is an advantage.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Good command of the English language.
• Flexibility and adaptability.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.

We offer

• Challenging and varied tasks with a high degree of responsibility.
• Support and collaboration with competent colleagues.
• Team‑oriented work in a dedicated, international, and respectful team.
• A friendly and collegial working environment.

Further information

Position is salaried under the collective agreement of the Länder (TV‑L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E 13 TV‑L.

Pay and additional benefits are discussed upon selection.

The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.

German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) as part of the employee support program.

Applicants from women and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Contact for further information: Riccarda Aust, Tel. +49 234 32 18035.

Applications must be submitted online by May 11 / 2026. Please mention the reference number ANR 5680.