Postdoctoral Research Position

The Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology is a research institute of the Max Planck Society. It was founded in 1992 in the State of Bremen and employs around 200 staff members. In close col­la­boration with numerous university and non-university research institutions, we explore the diversity and function of microorganisms in the ocean and their interactions with their environment. Scientists from all over the world, engineers, technicians, and administrative staff together make an important contribution to global marine and environmental research.

The Independent Research Group “Protist Viruses” is offering a

Postdoctoral Research Position

The Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology (MPI-MM) is offering an exciting opportunity for a motivated and talented individual to join its interdisciplinary team as a postdoctoral researcher. The success­ful candidate will work on a project that is funded by the Human Frontier Science Program and will be conducted in close collaboration with researchers at the University of Naples in Italy and the Kyoto University in Japan. The project explores the diversity of glycans and glycan-modifying enzymes in giant viruses of the phylum Nucleocytoviricota, which are genetically and morphologically diverse pathogens of unicellular eukaryotes (protists). Giant viruses are crucial components of microbial ecosystems and have played important roles during eukaryotic evolution. Their genomes encode hundreds of proteins that may render giant viruses autonomous from their hosts in many bio­chemical pathways; however, detailed studies in areas such as gly­co­sylation are often lacking. Initial studies in mimi- and phycodna­viruses have revealed an astounding repertoire of viral glycans, and glycosyltransferase genes are frequently present in giant virus genomes. The aim of this project is to follow viral glycan assembly during the infection process and to link specific glycans with the enzymes that synthesize them.

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will work with cultured flagellates and their giant viruses to study their infection cycles using various fluorescent labeling and microscopy techniques. You will establish siRNA gene silencing approaches to characterize the function of viral glycan-modifying enzymes. Your work will be coordinated with the chemists and bioinformaticians of our international team, but we encourage creativity and the pursuit of new ideas within the project framework.

What we expect from you:

You should hold a Ph.D. degree in a relevant field (e.g., microbiology, molecular biology, environmental sciences) and have prior experience in molecular biology, microbiology, cellular biology, or microbial eco­logy. Expertise in computational genome analysis is considered an asset.

You must be highly motivated to conduct cutting-edge research in environmental microbiology, which in­cludes the ability to work both independently and within an international and interdisciplinary team. Proficiency in experimental design, numerical data analysis, and scientific communication and writing is required. You should tackle and master new challenges with confidence, show meticulous attention to detail, and exhibit strong critical thinking skills. The working language of the research group is English.

What we offer:

The position is offered for two years with a possible extension depending on available funding and a salary that conforms to the German system for public employees (TVöD). You will be part of a moti­vating and supportive research group. The MPI for Marine Microbiology is home to a vibrant scientific community and provides access to state-of-the-art research facilities, as well as ample opportunities for professional development and networking.

The Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology is an equal opportunity employer. The Max Planck Society is committed to employing more disabled individuals and especially encourages them to apply. The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality.

Your application:

We look forward to receiving your application, which should include a letter of motivation, curriculum vitae, and academic transcripts. Please submit your documents by January 31st, 2025, via our online application portal.

For further information please contact Dr. Matthias Fischer (mfischer@mpi-bremen.de).

We look forward to your application!