Job Offer from July 11, 2024
The Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light (MPL) conducts research that covers a wide range of topics, including nonlinear optics, quantum optics, nanophotonics, photonic crystal fibers, optomechanics, quantum technologies, biophysics, and links between physics and medicine.
The research group of Dr. Katja Zieske invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Position (f/m/d) in Single-Molecule Biophysics.
Location: Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Germany
Application deadline: July 26, 2024
Start date: Preferably September 2024
Duration: 2 years
Salary: Based in E13 TVöD Bund
Working language: English
About us
The research group of Dr. Zieske is an independent research group at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light. We are an interdisciplinary team at the intersection of membrane biophysics, microfluidics and synthetic biology. Our research focuses on understanding the biophysical properties and assembly mechanisms of living soft matter, pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge.
Lab environment
Our team consists of interdisciplinary researchers from diverse backgrounds. We foster a supportive environment that encourages scientific growth. Our lab features an optical laboratory for assembling custom instruments and technologies for membrane biophysics and protein isolation. Postdoctoral researchers in our team leverage a diverse set of lipid model membranes, microfluidic technologies, and protein expertise. Additionally, we have access to shared state-of-the-art facilities, such as an in-house cleanroom and an optical imaging center.
Zieske group
Clean room facility
Optical imaging center
Position overview
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with expertise in quantitative microscopy or single-molecule measurements. The successful candidate will conduct cutting-edge interdisciplinary research, investigating the physical properties of protein patterns at lipid membranes at the single-molecule level. Responsibilities include assembling an optical setup for single-molecule tracking, performing data analysis, and interpreting results.
Key responsibilities
- Build and optimize an optical setup for single molecule tracking
- Investigate the biophysical properties of protein pattern on lipid membranes using single-molecule measurements
- Analyze and interpret experimental data
- Collaborate with team members on interdisciplinary projects addressing the assembly and control of protein patterns at model membranes
- Present research findings in group meetings and at scientific meetings
- Train graduate and undergraduate students as needed
Qualification of PhD candidate
- PhD in Physics, Optical technologies, Biophysics, or a related field
- Strong interested in single-molecule measurements of proteins at lipid model membrane interfaces
- Experience in one or more of the following areas is advantageous:
- Assembly of optical setups
- Single molecule tracking or optical trapping / manipulation / imaging of biological objects
- Membrane biophysics
- Biophysical research
Application process
To apply, please submit the following materials:
- Letter of motivation
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- List of publications
- One-page summary of PhD project
- Transcript of records (Bachelor’s and Master studies)
- Contact details of your PhD advisor and a second academic reference familiar with your PhD project
Submit your application by July 26, 2024 via our online application tool.
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 those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.
Join us at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light and contribute to groundbreaking research in single-molecule biophysics at lipid membranes!