Job Information
Organisation/Company: Johannes Kepler University
Department: Institute of Biophysics
Research Field: Physics, Biological sciences
Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)
Positions: PhD Positions
Application Deadline: 30 Sep 2026 - 12:00 (Europe/Vienna)
Country: Austria
Type of Contract: Temporary
Job Status: Full-time
Hours Per Week: 40
Offer Starting Date: 1 Oct 2026
Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme
Reference Number: 10.55776/PIN4504225
Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No
Offer Description
A PhD position is available in the group of Prof. Peter Pohl at the Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Austria. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the project's Principal Investigator, Dr. Denis Knyazev, Senior Researcher in Prof. Peter Pohl's group.
How do cells transport newly synthesized proteins across biological membranes? This fundamental process is essential for life and is mediated by a molecular machine known as the Sec translocon. Although ATP is known to power protein translocation, the molecular mechanism by which the proton gradient across the membrane contributes to this process remains one of the major open questions in membrane biology.
The project aims to uncover how the proton-motive force drives protein translocation by combining single-molecule fluorescence microscopy and single-channel electrophysiology in a unique correlative experimental platform. Using purified membrane proteins reconstituted into artificial lipid membranes, the successful candidate will investigate conformational dynamics of the translocon while simultaneously monitoring its transport activity. The project offers the opportunity to develop and apply state-of-the-art biophysical methods at the interface of molecular biology, membrane biophysics, fluorescence microscopy, and electrophysiology.
Beyond addressing a fundamental biological question, the project will contribute to the development of novel experimental techniques for studying membrane proteins at the single-molecule level. The successful candidate will work in an interdisciplinary and international research environment with access to advanced instrumentation and close collaborations with leading research groups.
Where to apply
E-mail: denis.knyazev@jku.at
Requirements
Research Field: Physics » Biophysics
Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent
Skills/Qualifications
We are looking for highly motivated students who hold, or are close to completing, an MSc degree in biophysics, physics, molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, pharmacy, or a closely related discipline.
We particularly value candidates who demonstrate:
- strong interest in fundamental research and experimental science;
- a problem-solving attitude, analytical thinking, and scientific curiosity;
- motivation and ability to rapidly learn new experimental techniques and project-related knowledge;
- ability to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team;
- excellent communication skills and proficiency in written and spoken English.
Specific Requirements
Previous experience in at least one of the following areas is considered an advantage:
- biophysics of proteins or membranes;
- fluorescence microscopy or single-molecule spectroscopy;
- molecular biology and recombinant protein production;
- protein purification and biochemical characterization;
- membrane protein reconstitution into model membranes;
- electrophysiology or microfluidics;
- quantitative data analysis and scientific programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW or similar).
Languages: English - Excellent
Internal Application form(s) needed: PhD_Application_Form_JKU_Biophysics_v5.pdf (English, 23.93 KB - PDF)
Additional Information
Benefits
The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary and international research environment at the Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University Linz. The project is funded through a joint programme of the Austrian Science Fund (FWF) and the Czech Science Foundation (GA CR), and is carried out in close collaboration with University of Bristol.
Eligibility criteria
Applicants should:
- hold (or be close to completing) a Master's degree or equivalent in one of the disciplines listed under Required Qualifications;
- fulfil the qualifications and requirements described in the Required Qualifications section;
- submit a completed Application Form, together with a Curriculum Vitae, by e-mail to the contact address provided in this advertisement.
Selection process
Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis. The position will remain open until a suitable candidate has been identified. Early applications are therefore strongly encouraged. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview.
Work Location(s)
Number of offers available: 1
Company/Institute: Johannes Kepler University, Linz
Country: Austria
State/Province: Upper Austria
City: Linz
Postal Code: 4040
Street: Altenbergerstr. 69
Contact
City: Linz
Website: https://www.jku.at/institut-fuer-biophysik/
Street: Gruberstr. 40
Postal Code: 4020
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