PhD Student (gn*) Chemistry, Biochemistry or related fields

Limited to 3 years | Part-time with 65% | Salary according to TV-L E13 | Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry

We are UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility.

To meet our high standards every day, we are looking forward to your scientific expertise in Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry. Here, Prof. Seraphine Wegner is currently looking for motivated doctoral candidates with an active interest in interdisciplinary research in the area of intelligent materials and synthetic cells. The doctoral candidates will be part of the collaborative research center (CRC) Intelligent Matter:  From Responsive to Adaptive Nanosystems at the University of Münster – ideally with you on board!

The project, involves the development of “Multistimuli sensing with memory and feedback function using photoswitchable proteins”. We aim to develop molecular systems starting from photoswitchable proteins as well as model membranes and synthetic cells that can integrate multiple stimuli (different colors of visible light, chemical fuels, temperature etc.) and respond to these. We will explore how such systems can develop memory for previous inputs, use intrinsically generated signals to generate feedback and show nonlinear dynamic responses. Our goal is to harness the established molecular toolbox of different light-responsive proteins and their photoactivation with in situ generated light for seamlessly integrating these proteins into reaction networks, creating systems that demonstrate adaptive and pulsatile responses. As demonstrators, we plan to incorporate the photoswitchable proteins and reactions into diverse soft material systems including protein aggregates, supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) and giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). The first focus will revolve around reaction networks with light responsive elements that can be fueled with external light illumination as well as in situ light production modules in the form of chemiluminescence and bioluminescence reactions. The second emphasis will be to produce systems with transient pulsatile responses to changes in illumination, moving beyond a simple binary on/off response. More details on the research profile of the group.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design and characterization of photoswitchable proteins, protein and DNA based biochemical techniques
• Formation of biomimetic surfaces with precise biofunctionalization
• Investigation of light controlled and chemically fueled systems
• Fluorescence microscopy and image analysis

REQUIREMENTS:

• A Master of Science degree (and no previous PhD degree) in Chemistry, biochemistry or related fields
• Advanced level training in Science and Technology of relevance to the specific PhD position, including laboratory experience 
• Motivation to work at the interface of disciplines (Chemistry, Biology, Engineering and Physics)
• Good interpersonal, communication and reporting skills, both oral and written and interest for the promotion of science

Apply now via our career portal (including a detailed CV precisely mentioning practical and theoretical skills, a motivation letter, academic transcript and two academic references) until 15.01.2025.