The Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry (MPIB) in Martinsried is one of the world's leading research institutions in the fields of biochemistry, cell and structural biology, and biomedical research. With approximately 30 scientific departments and research groups and about 750 employees, the MPIB is one of the largest institutes of the Max Planck Society.

The “Host Defence Mechanisms” group led by Dr. Marion Schuller is looking with a proposed start in September 2025 to recruit a PhD student (m/f/d).

The “Host Defence Mechanisms” group studies the role of ADP-ribosylation signalling in the conflict between phages and the bacterial host with the aim to identify new antimicrobial drug targets and to develop biotechnological approaches including for phage-derived therapies. The PhD project will focus on the mechanistic characterisation of nucleic-acid-targeting bacterial defence systems, using a combination of biochemical, structural, and microbiological approaches. We seek a highly-motivated doctoral student (m/f/div) to join an international, enthusiastic, and collaborative department in an outstanding dynamic scientific environment.

Qualifications

The successful candidate (m/f/d) should hold a Master's degree or similar qualification in Biochemistry, Biology, Molecular Biology or Life Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related fields. They should be enthusiastic about recombinant protein production, structural biology, and performing biochemical/-physical and microbiological assays. Excellent interdisciplinary communication skills as well as written and oral command of the English language are essential. Previous experience in protein biochemistry, structural biology and work with PTMs is advantageous but not required.

What we offer

Payment will be according to qualifications and in accordance with TVöD (German public service tariff scale). The initial appointment will be for 3 years with a possible extension.

The Max-Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in research and explicitly encourages women to apply.

Are you interested?

Then please upload your complete application documents, containing a letter with a personal statement describing your scientific accomplishments and your interests in our group and its research, your CV and bibliography, as well as contact information for at least two references, in electronic form via the online application website. Deadline: 20^th July 2025.

Please note: Applications by e-mail will not be considered for data protection reasons.

Informal inquiries are welcome and should be sent to mschuller@biochem.mpg.de. Further information about the institute and the department.