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PhD position Molecular and Applied Microbiology : Jena, Germany
he Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute – HKI http://leibniz-hki.de investigates the pathobiology of human-pathogenic fungi and identifies targets for the development of novel natural product-based antibiotics. The Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology invites talented and highly gifted candidates to apply for a
PhD position
starting as soon as possible for three years initially.
Project
Novel molecular mechanisms of iron sensing and homeostasis in filamentous fungi.
Research area
Due to the fundamental differences in the mechanism employed by host and pathogens to maintain iron homeostasis, iron metabolism is an attractive new target for improvement of antifungal therapy and diagnosis of fungal infections. In the most common airborne fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus, the key iron regulator HapX has been shown to be required for adaptation to iron starvation via its interaction with the CCAAT-binding complex (CBC). We aim to explore in molecular depth the functions of the HapX/CBC complex as iron sensor, transcriptional repressor and activator, as well as promoter organizer. In vivo and in vitro analyses will be combined with structural examinations of the involved protein/protein and protein/DNA complexes to elucidate these novel regulatory mechanisms. The project will be part of a cross-border collaboration (D-A-CH) funded by the DFG (German Research Foundation).
Requirements
We expect a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biochemistry. Experience in lab work, either biochemistry-, or molecular biology-oriented and very good communication skills in English are required. Furthermore, the applicants should be able to perform team-oriented as well as independent work. Citizens from an EU Member State or Associated Country are welcome and encouraged to apply.
We offer
Successful candidates will be hosted in the research group Molecular and Applied Microbiology. The department is embedded in the outstanding scientific environment of the Beutenberg Campus providing state-of-art research facilities and a highly integrative network of life science groups. We offer a multifaceted scientific project with excellent technical facilities, a place in a young, committed team, as well as strong scientific collaborations. The position will be filled as soon as possible.
Salary is paid according to German TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees). As an equal opportunity employer the HKI is committed to increase the percentage of female scientists and therefore especially encourages them to apply.
Further information
Prof. Dr. Axel Brakhage | +49 3641 532 1001 | axel.brakhage@leibniz-hki.de
Dr. Peter Hortschansky | +49 3641 532 1085 | peter.hortschansky@leibniz-hki.de
Complete applications in English should include a CV, a complete list of publications, a brief statement of research experiences, the addresses of two possible referees, and should be submitted by 19.06.2015 referring to HKI job posting No. 15/2015 to jobs@leibniz-hki.de.…
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Employer:Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology
Website:http://www.leibniz-hki.de
Location:Jena, Germany
Expires:June 19, 2015
Job type:PhD Studentship
Salary:Unspecified
Qualifications:Postgraduate - Doctorate/PhD
Employment type:Contract
Job hours:Full-time