PhD Position in Cell Biology of the Plant

University of Goettingen

At the University of Göttingen -Public Law Foundation-, Albrecht-von-Haller-Institut für Pflanzenwissenschaften - Zellbiologie d.Pflanze, there is a position as

Ph.D. candidate (all genders welcome)
Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L/65%

to be filled. Starting date is as soon as possible. The position is offered for a period of three years according to the German public service pay grade 13 TV-L (65 %).

Our research group investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying plant immune responses and pathogen virulence strategies. We focus on how these processes operate within distinct cellular and extracellular compartments. Using Arabidopsis thaliana interactions with gram-positive bacteria and Verticillium species as model systems, we aim to uncover the molecular dialogue between host and pathogen that determines disease outcomes.

The successful PhD candidate will explore either:

1. the molecular function and regulation of a specific Arabidopsis immune receptor complex (https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.09.18.677107), or
2. the transfer and biochemical & cellular activities of a Verticillium effector protein (https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.01.09.632073).

The project will combine biochemical, cell biological, genetic, and molecular approaches to dissect plant–pathogen interactions at high resolution. The work will involve advanced techniques in protein biochemistry, live-cell imaging (including confocal microscopy), molecular cloning, and functional genomics.

We offer a state-of-the-art experimental infrastructure and an innovative, collaborative, and stimulating research environment. The project is embedded in a network of national and international collaborations, providing opportunities for joint projects and participation in international conferences.

Your Profile

• A highly qualified M.Sc. (or equivalent) degree in molecular life sciences, with solid expertise in Molecular Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Plant–Microbe Interactions, and Confocal Microscopy.
• Strong motivation and enthusiasm for research in plant molecular biology and host–pathogen interactions.
• Excellent communication skills in both spoken and written German and English (Level C1)
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

We Offer

• Comprehensive supervision and mentoring by experienced scientists.
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities and core technologies.
• A vibrant scientific community with regular seminars and training opportunities.
• A dynamic, inclusive, and supportive academic environment fostering career development.

The University of Göttingen is an equal opportunities employer and places particular emphasis on fostering career opportunities for women. Qualified women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply in fields in which they are underrepresented. The university has committed itself to being a family-friendly institution and supports their employees in balancing work and family life. The University is particularly committed to the professional participation of severely disabled employees and therefore welcomes applications from severely disabled people. In the case of equal qualifications, applications from people with severe disabilities will be given preference. A disability or equality is to be included in the application in order to protect the interests of the applicant.

Please upload your application in one pdf file including the usual documents until 12/31/2025 on the application portal of the university using this link: http://obp.uni-goettingen.de/de-de/OBF/Index/76194. For more information get in touch with Volker Lipka directly via E-Mail: Volker.Lipka@biologie.uni-goettingen.de, Tel. +49 551 3928401.

Please note:
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