PhD position: Advanced Cryo-EM for Atomic Reconstruction of Soft Matter Structures and Protein-Surface Interaction

Job Offer from July 29, 2024

Join our innovative research team as a PhD student where you will be at the forefront of cutting-edge investigation of novel soft matter systems with atomic resolution.

About the project

Within this research project, the successful candidate will have a unique opportunity to investigate the atomic structure at the interface between material science and molecular biology, providing essential insights to guide the application research of these novel nanomaterials. You will be part of the Physical Chemistry of Polymers group at MPI-P, headed by Prof. Dr. Katharina Landfester.

Key responsibilities

  • Collect large image datasets using automated software on a one-of-a-kind cryogenic electron microscope.
  • Perform high-resolution image analysis using advanced software for structure determination.
  • Build atomic models based on the resolved high-resolution electron density volumes.
  • Use Cryo-EM and other advanced imaging techniques to analyze promising reconstruction candidates.

Job requirements

We are looking for enthusiastic candidates with a Master's degree in chemistry, physics, biochemistry or a related field. The ideal candidate will have knowledge or experience in microscopy, preferably (cryo)TEM, image analysis tools, and programming languages such as python. A strong interest in protein science and reconstruction will be strongly beneficial. Optimal communication skills are highly valued, along with a willingness to actively contribute to team efforts, and a friendly and positive personality that fosters a supportive and inclusive working environment. Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is required as English is the working language at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research.

The Max Planck Society is committed to employing more individuals with disabilities, and especially encourages them to apply. The Society seeks to increase the number of women in areas where they are underrepresented, and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.

The position is available now. Remuneration will be according to the collective wage agreement for the public service 65% TVöD Bund EG13-1.

Your application

Applications should be sent by e-mail to: lieberw@... and cc mazzottaf@..., should indicate in the subject line “Application: Advanced Cryo-EM for Soft Matter”, and must include the following:

  1. A letter of motivation (max. 1 page), clearly stating the specific interest of the candidate to join the group and work on this project, his/her career goals, etc.
  2. Curriculum vitae.
  3. Contact details of two referees.

For more information, please contact Dr. Ingo Lieberwirth (lieberw@...)

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