Several Postdoctoral Researcher Positions

The core mission of the Cluster of Excellence “Balance of the Microverse” of the Friedrich Schiller University Jena is to elucidate fundamental principles of the interactions and functions in microbial communities in diverse habitats, ranging from oceans and groundwater to plant and human hosts. We aim to identify the shared characteristics of disturbed or polluted ecosystems as well as infectious diseases on the microbiome level, and develop strategies for their remediation by targeted interventions. The affiliated early career program of the Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC) offers an ambitious, structured and interdisci­plinary post-graduate training based on top-level fundamental research.

The Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse invites applications for

Several Postdoctoral Researcher Positions

We are recruiting engaging and motivated individuals to join our research cluster. Important for all candidates will be the willingness to collaborate widely and to look beyond traditional disciplines to further our mission. What are the similarities and differences in the recruitment and maintenance of plant and animal microbiomes? What imaging technologies can best be adapted to study microbes in their natural environment with minimal artificial manipulation? What can we learn about the resilience and stability of microbial communities in diverse environments such as soil, the oceans and ground water? How can we translate our understanding of microbiomes to positive societal impact? Answering these questions requires that we come together as a scientific community to which we contribute expertise as well as a curiosity about unfamiliar subjects.

We expect:

• A PhD (or equivalent) in Mathematical, Physical, Life or Natural Sciences (Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Analytical chemistry, -omics data, Molecular Medicine, Immunology, Biophysics or closely related fields). Candidates in the final stages of obtaining their degree are eligible to apply
• Desirable methodological skills: excellent background in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, immunology and/or microbiology, hands-on knowledge of analytical methods
• Highly motivated individuals with an interest in joining one of the interdisciplinary re­search areas of the Microverse Cluster
• The abililty to work creatively and independently towards developing your own research project
• A collaborative personality with enthusiasm for actively participating in the dynamic Microverse community
• Excellent English communication skills, both written and spoken

We offer:

• A highly communicative atmosphere within a scientific network providing top-level re­search facilities
• A comprehensive mentoring program and soft skill courses for early career researchers
• Jena – City of Science: a young and lively town with a vibrant local cultural agenda

The advertised full-time positions are (initially) limited until 31.12.2025. The positions will be funded through the Excellence Strategy of the German federal and state governments or the Carl Zeiss Foundation. A part-time contract can be discussed. To promote gender equality in science, applications by women are especially welcome. Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.

Are you eager to work with us? Then apply by 15.04.2024 using our online form.

Online application

Please familiarize yourself with the currently available projects (www.microverse-cluster.de) and the application process as described in the Online Application Portal. Selected applicants will be invited to an online recruitment meeting taking place in April. Awarding decisions will be announced shortly thereafter, and candidates are expected to be available to start their projects from May 2024.