PhD Position in Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine

University of Bern Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine

PhD student

The lab of Stephan Hirschi is looking for a highly motivated and curious PhD student to join an interdisciplinary research project in structural biology and molecular parasitology. This full-time PhD position has a duration of four years and is intended to start in early summer 2026.

Project Overview

This PhD project is focused on elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying nutrient transport processes in Plasmodium falciparum, the causative agent of malaria. The project aims to generate fundamental insights into parasite biology and translate them into new therapeutic strategies against malaria. Specific objectives will include the identification of essential membrane transport proteins, their functional and structural characterisation using biochemical and biophysical approaches, structure determination by cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), investigation of their physiological roles in transgenic parasites, and structure-based drug design.

The Position

The successful candidate will be working as a research assistant at the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (IBMM), part of the University of Bern, and will be enrolled in the Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences (GCB). The PhD student will plan, execute, and document experiments, analyse and interpret complex datasets, present results at internal meetings and international scientific conferences, and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals. The position also offers the opportunity to gain teaching experience, for example by serving as a teaching assistant in Bachelor- or Master-level courses or by tutoring students. We offer a competitive salary in accordance with the salary regulations of the Canton of Bern.

Candidate Profile

You are a highly motivated, intellectually curious individual who enjoys solving complex biological questions and is capable of working independently as well as collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams. Required qualifications and skills:
• Master's degree in biochemistry, molecular life sciences, or a related field
• Strong interest in parasite biology, membrane transport proteins, and structural biology
• Laboratory experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, or similar fields is expected. Previous experience in recombinant protein expression, protein purification, cryo-EM, or Plasmodium culture is a big plus
• Ability to work autonomously and plan their own work
• Scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and drive to address challenging biological questions
• Strong written and spoken English skills

Our Institute and Location

The project will be carried out at the IBMM (https://www.ibmm.unibe.ch/), a research-oriented institute with a strong focus on membrane biology and membrane transport proteins, offering an international, collaborative, and supportive research environment. PhD students benefit from structured doctoral training, access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities, and close scientific mentoring. The University of Bern is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion.
The position is based in Bern, a vibrant university city offering a high quality of life, excellent public infrastructure, and close proximity to nature, including the Alps. Bern provides an outstanding environment for both academic development and personal life.

The Application

Applications should contain the following as a single PDF file with the applicant's name:
(1) A motivation letter describing research interests and motivation to apply (1 page)
(2) A complete CV (2 pages)
(3) Copies of relevant diplomas and certificates
(4) An electronic copy of a research work (Master thesis or other scientific publication) accompanied by a short summary and description of the candidate's contributions in English (1 page maximum). Alternatively, a support letter written by the Master thesis supervisor (or another principal investigator who knows the candidate well) is equally welcome
(5) Letters and contact information of two references

Please send your application to stephan.hirschi@unibe.ch. Applications will be constantly evaluated and the position will be kept open until a suitable candidate has been found. Successful applicants will be invited to visit the lab and the institute.