PhD Student position (Würzburg-Germany)
The Department of Biotechnology and Biophysics at the University of Würzburg is looking for a

PhD Student (TV-L 13, 50 %)

Many substantial processes in filamentous fungi are controlled by light. Fungi usually possess light sensors reacting to different wavelength in the VIS spectrum. Green light is sensed by fungal rhodopsins, a family of photoreceptors with a highly conserved structure consisting of seven transmembrane helices. The structure includes an internal pocket that harbours the chromophore all-trans-retinal, which is covalently bound to the protein via a protonated Schiff-base. Upon light activation, retinal changes its conformation from all-trans to 13-cis, leading to either proton-pumping or sensory function depending on the protein. However, detailed knowledge of the physiological functions of fungal rhodopsins is still missing.

The successful applicant will work in a DFG-funded project that will analyze the role and function of fungal rhodopsins by means of interdisciplinary methods combining molecular biology, microbiology, electrophysiology, and state-to-the-art fluorescence microscopy.

Requirements:
•       Very good knowledge in at least one of the fields
        electrophysiology, microbiology, mycology, biochemistry,
        optogenetics, or molecular biology
•       Master or Diploma in Biology, Biochemistry, or a related
        discipline, with good to very good academic grade.
•       Interest in interdisciplinary research.
•       Good knowledge in spoken and written English

The policy of the University of Würzburg is to create equal opportunities for women and men. In order to achieve this target, applications from suitably qualified women are particularly welcome. Preference will be given to handicapped applicants with equal qualifications.

Please send your electronic application and corresponding supporting documents (CV, certificates, credentials) to the address below, not later than 24th January 2014.

For further information please contact:

Dr. Ulrich Terpitz, Department of Biotechnology and Biophysics
97074 Würzburg, Germany, phone: +49 931-31-84226
e-mail: ulrich.terpitz@uni-wuerzburg.de

http://www.super-resolution.biozentrum.uni-wuerzburg.de/research_topics/patch_clamp/
Dr. Ulrich Terpitz
ulrich.terpitz@uni-wuerzburg.de
Julius-Maximilians-Universität
Würzburg

Ansprechpartner: Dr. Ulrich Terpitz, ulrich.terpitz@uni-wuerzburg.de